A former Director of the Ghana School of Law, Kwaku Ansa-Asare, has raised concerns that Ghana’s Legal Education Reform Bill could undermine professional standards if not effectively regulated.

The bill passed by Parliament on March 26, 2026, seeks to liberalise legal training by ending the Ghana School of Law’s monopoly and permitting other tertiary institutions to train lawyers.

According to a report by adomonline.com on March 27, 2026, Ansa-Asare said broadening access to legal education is a positive step, as it enables more people to understand their rights and responsibilities under the law.

He, however, expressed certain concerns about the new development in the legal space.

Legal Education Bill 'troubling' and 'incomplete' – Ansa-Asare

“Many believe Ghana already has too many lawyers, but the numbers are not excessive. My concern is that the reform might encourage people to study law for prestige and social recognition rather than genuine interest or competence,” he said.

He cautioned that an unchecked expansion could lead to an oversupply of lawyers, which may affect the quality of legal practice in the country.

He further noted that the reforms could attract individuals who may want to pursue law primarily for prestige rather than competence; a trend he believes could weaken the integrity of the profession if not addressed.

Ansa-Asare emphasised the need for strong regulatory oversight to ensure that standards are maintained as the bill will now permit other tertiary institutions to train lawyers.

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