Justice Kulendi Returns to UG Law School, Urges Future Lawyers to Uphold Integrity and Purpose

There was a sense of homecoming at the University of Ghana School of Law as Supreme Court Justice Emmanuel Yonny Kulendi returned to his alma mater to deliver the Distinguished Alumni Lecture, inspiring the next generation of lawyers with lessons drawn from his own journey through the legal profession.

Addressing students and faculty, Justice Kulendi reflected on the institution that helped shape his legal career, describing the opportunity to return as both an honour and a deeply personal moment.

“It is a singular privilege to return to the University of Ghana School of Law, the institution that contributed to my understanding of what it means to be a lawyer,” he said.

He noted that returning to the lecture halls where he once studied reminded him that, before becoming a Justice of the Supreme Court, he was simply a student learning the values that define the legal profession.

According to him, the principles of hard work, discipline, integrity and intellectual honesty were instilled in him during his time at the law school and have remained the foundation of his professional life.

Before delving into the main theme of his lecture, Justice Kulendi shared what he affectionately described as his “Wa boy” story—a reflection on his journey from the Upper West Region to Ghana’s highest court.

He recounted how his path from humble beginnings eventually led him to become the first Justice of the Supreme Court from the Upper West Region, a milestone he said demonstrates the transformative power of determination and education.

Using his personal story as a point of inspiration, Justice Kulendi challenged students to approach the legal profession with courage and a commitment to service.

He acknowledged that Ghana’s justice system, like those inherited by previous generations, is not without flaws. However, he urged aspiring lawyers not to become discouraged by its imperfections.

Instead, he encouraged them to see themselves as custodians of the legal system with a responsibility to strengthen institutions, uphold justice and preserve public confidence in the rule of law.

His message centred on the belief that integrity, intellectual honesty and unwavering dedication remain the qualities that enable lawyers to make a lasting impact, regardless of where they begin their journey.

For many in attendance, Justice Kulendi’s return served not only as a celebration of distinguished alumni but also as a powerful reminder that commitment to excellence and ethical practice can carry a young law student from the classroom to the highest levels of Ghana’s judiciary.

Yaw Opoku Amoako

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