SHILLONG, July 8: Chief Justice Revati Mohite Dere on Tuesday challenged students at NLU Meghalaya to bridge the gap between elite legal education and grassroots reality, urging them to intern in the state’s district courts as the university marked its third foundation day.
Speaking at the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Auditorium, the Chief Justice, who also serves as the University Chancellor, emphasized that legal training must extend beyond the classroom. She advised aspiring lawyers to seek internships with district court practitioners, public prosecutors, and non-governmental organisations to better understand the legal challenges faced by local communities.
“There is no substitute for hard work, perseverance, and continuous self-improvement,” Justice Dere said, noting that such exposure provides essential insights into the functioning of the justice delivery system at the ground level. She called on the student body to uphold professional ethics and commit to serving society through the legal profession.
The visit included the inauguration of the university’s new Moot Court Room, designed to provide students with practical courtroom experience. Justice Dere also launched a Student House System aimed at fostering mentorship and holistic development.
Vice-Chancellor (In-charge) Kerpa Meida Lyngdoh Nongbri and Registrar Prof. (Dr.) Baharul Islam addressed the gathering, noting the university’s progress since its establishment three years ago. The event marks a shift in focus for the young institution toward addressing the specific judicial needs of Meghalaya through practical, locally-relevant legal training.
