Shaping the Future of Legal Education: Insights from the Manupatra-NLUO Eastern Region Law Teachers’ Conclave
Last Updated on October 20, 2024 by Athi Venkatesh
The Manupatra-NLUO Eastern Region Law Teachers’ Conclave, held on September 28, 2024, at the National Law University Odisha (NLUO), brought together distinguished legal educators and professionals to discuss the future of legal education and the evolving role of law teachers in an AI-driven world. The event focused on key themes such as the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), preparing students for a global legal landscape, and the multifaceted responsibilities modern educators face.
Inaugurated by Odisha’s Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan and Justice Mruganka Sekhar Sahoo of the High Court of Odisha, the conclave opened with thought-provoking discussions on the role of AI in legal education. Speakers, including Prof. (Dr.) Ved Kumari and Prof. (Dr.) Faizan Mustafa, emphasized that while AI can support legal research and streamline classroom management, it cannot replace the critical thinking, empathy, and ethical reasoning taught by human educators.
A key takeaway from the event was the importance of balancing teaching, research, and administrative duties, with teaching being a priority. Passion, preparation, and commitment to student success were highlighted as essential components of effective legal education.
Panelists also discussed the need for law schools to equip students with skills required in a globalized legal market. Professionals from the industry, like CV Raghu and Deepalakshmi Vadivelan, stressed the importance of soft skills, cross-border communication, and practical, real-world training in legal education.
The conclave concluded with a clear message: legal education must evolve with the times, but its core human values—critical thinking, ethical judgment, and practical skills—remain irreplaceable. By integrating AI responsibly and fostering a collaborative learning environment, educators can ensure that students are not just exam-ready but truly future-ready.
For more details and session videos, visit Manupatra Academy.
