DOHA: Hamad Bin Khalifa University’s (HBKU) College of Law and Public Policy held a Ramadan event for students from its Juris Doctor (JD) graduate law programme.
The event aimed to bring students together with leaders from Qatar’s legal community and celebrate the college’s first programme of legal internships being held throughout the summer.
Last year, the JD programme was the first to be launched by the college. It delivers a customised legal curriculum that uses innovative methods of instruction focusing on meeting the needs of the Gulf’s most important industries.
The internships have been organised to offer students the chance to experience the practice of law and solidify the theoretical understanding of legal issues and concepts learnt in the classroom.
“The JD programmer is the first of its kind in the region and fosters innovation and resourcefulness within our students while developing their legal knowledge,” said Professor Clinton Francis, Founding Dean of the college.
“I am grateful to all faculty members and staff who have been so supportive of such a pioneering programme and I am proud of what our students have accomplished so far.
“I’m delighted the students are getting the opportunity to enjoy internships at a variety of organisations in Qatar, and am grateful to all of those offering internships.
“Such real-world experience working alongside legal professionals can enhance their knowledge and build connections that will have a lasting positive benefit for all involved.”
Professor Francis was speaking at a Suhoor gathering hosted by the college which offered an opportunity for the JD students to gather together with local legal stakeholders and discuss the practical aspects of their education. Representatives of Qatar International Court Dispute Resolution Centre, Sultan Al Abdulla & Partners law firm, Ghada M Darwish law firm, Al Sulaiti law firm and the Supreme Committee for Legacy and Delivery were present.
Ibrahim Al Jabor, a JD student interning at Siemens, said, “I was drawn to the programme because of its academic and practical components that prepare students to successfully enter the market after they graduate. For me, the degree supplements my long career in engineering projects and contracts.”
The summer internship is part of an undertaking by the college that students’ learning experience be in line with the needs of Qatari society and involve interaction with the community. Other initiatives from the JD program include a Legal Leadership Speaker Series, where experts from the country are invited to visit the college to share knowledge and experiences with students.
The Peninsula
