In a groundbreaking achievement, Smith Kiiza, a Ugandan, has etched his name in the annals of legal history as the first African lawyer and student to earn a master’s degree in law from India. This momentous accomplishment not only showcases Kiiza’s dedication to his craft but also highlights the global nature of legal education.
Kiiza Smith’s academic journey took a significant turn when he pursued his master’s degree in criminal law at Shoolini University in Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India. Graduating with flying colours, he achieved an impressive 8.5 CGPA, distinguishing himself as one of the top performers in his cohort. His academic prowess set the stage for a trajectory that would redefine the possibilities for aspiring legal professionals.
Adding to his list of achievements, Kiiza Smith secured a scholarship for his Doctorate in Law, further emphasizing his commitment to scholarly excellence. As he embarked on his doctoral studies, he carried with him the distinction of being the first African lawyer admitted to the Indian Bar Council, a testament to his remarkable journey transcending geographical and professional boundaries.
Kiiza Smith’s unique position as both a student and a foreign lawyer practising in India exemplifies his ability to seamlessly blend academic pursuits with real-world legal practice. This dual role not only sets him apart but also symbolizes the evolving landscape of legal education, where individuals like Kiiza are breaking barriers and reshaping traditional norms.
The significance of Kiiza Smith’s achievement extends beyond personal success; it represents a bridge between continents, fostering cultural exchange and collaboration in the legal field. As the first African lawyer to earn a master’s degree in law from India, Kiiza has paved the way for future generations, inspiring a new era of diversity and inclusion in legal education.
In a world where borders are fading and collaboration is paramount, Kiiza Smith stands as a beacon of progress and achievement. His journey, marked by academic excellence and a pioneering spirit, serves as a testament to the limitless possibilities that await those who dare to challenge conventions.
As we celebrate the milestone of Kiiza Smith completing his master’s degree in law, we also anticipate the impact he will continue to make in the legal landscape. His story is not just about personal achievement; it is a narrative of breaking barriers, fostering diversity, and contributing to the global tapestry of legal knowledge. The first African lawyer and student to earn a master’s degree in law from India, Smith Kiiza is not just a name; he is a trailblazer, shaping the future of legal education and practice.
Shedding light on his future plans with KIU News, Kiiza, who is a registered member of the Uganda Law Society and the East Africa Law Society, hopes to become an international lawyer. Journeying towards this, he has registered with the Asian Law Society and is currently working on getting registered to start his practice in India.
Asked why he is focused on Asian countries, Kiiza revealed that Asians contribute over 50 percent to the world population, and currently, they have a lot of businesses in Africa. So as a lawyer majoring in criminal practice, land practice, family practice, and civil ligation, gaining ground in these Asian countries is a good strategy.
Besides making it as an international lawyer, Kiiza also dreams of working for UN organizations, and one of their qualifications is to have a master’s degree in law, something he is already working on.
As he continues to journey towards becoming Uganda’s next top advocate, Kiiza encourages students, especially law students, to believe in God, keep praying, build connections, and network because it is as a result of all this and his family’s support that he has been able to make all these achievements in such a short span of time.