By Steven Masiga
A famous statement, captured by Prof. Makubuya, quoting his academic friend Prof. Kanyeihamba, observed about 50 years ago when they taught law at Makerere University in the early 1970s: “Law is not posho and beans.”
Any serious law student should have come across this statement in the book “Introduction to Law in Uganda” by Prof. Kiddu Makubuya. Introduction to law is the foundational course in law school, akin to learning the alphabet (ABCs) before constructing words and sentences. It provides a comprehensive overview of the legal system.
Kanyeihamba reiterated this statement when I attended the Law Development Centre (LDC) about 15 years ago. While the veracity of his statement is debatable, the core message is clear: law is not a trivial pursuit.
The LLB stands for Legum Baccalaureus. “Legum” is the plural of “lex” or “law,” suggesting a broader scope of legal studies, perhaps encompassing both civil and canon law. This historical context may explain the use of “LLB” instead of a simpler designation like “LB” or “BL.”
Law degrees involve the study of various legal principles and theories, including statutory law and case law. Students must engage with extensive legal materials to develop a deep understanding of the subject matter.
Key constitutional principles, such as the presumption of innocence enshrined in Article 28 of the Ugandan Constitution, are fundamental to the legal system. Other important principles include the prohibition of double jeopardy and the requirement that punishment must be prescribed by law.
Criminal law encompasses a wide range of offenses and defenses. Accused persons may rely on various defenses, such as alibi, ignorance, claim of right, or insanity, to escape liability.
The law course is demanding, requiring significant time and effort. Many individuals, including working professionals, pursue law degrees to enhance their careers and personal development.
The four-year law course includes units that cut across all universities in Uganda: Introduction to Law, Jurisprudence, Administrative Law, Constitutional Law and the Constitutional History of Uganda, Labour Law, International Law, International Human Rights Law, The Law of Torts, Criminal Law, Criminal Procedure, Civil Law, Law of Evidence, Research Methods, Contract Law, and Family Law, among others.
I have recently enrolled in my fourth law degree. I believe that the skills and knowledge gained through legal education will be invaluable in my future endeavors, particularly in serving my community.
I would like to express my gratitude to those who supported me, especially His Highness the Umukuka of the Bamasaba people, Jude Mike Mudoma, and various other individuals who contributed to my academic journey.
The writer works with Makerere University, Department of Community Education.
