At 2pm today, a meeting was held at Gateway Building at the University of Malta between the Faculty of Laws’ Dean, Prof. Kevin Aquilina, and the majority of the currently enrolled Master of Advocacy students. The meeting was formally requested by Law Student Representative, Ms Mariah Mula, to allow the students in question to directly raise their concerns.
The main concern raised by those present was the fact that they had enrolled for the law course with the legitimate expectation that they would be graduating with the same “Dr” title as all those who had entered the course before them. Furthermore, many are angered at the fact that since the course has been shortened to five years, they will be graduating in parallel with the current sixth-year law students who will be acquiring the “Dr” title. It is argued that this will create an unfair distinction between the two types of law graduates that may lead to unintended professional discrimination, thus effectively creating an unlevel playing field.
Prof. Aquilina effectively maintained the stance previously held in the past that the issue regarding the “Dr” title is not in the hands of the Faculty. It was also mentioned that as the structure of the course is a second cycle course, then a “Dr” title cannot be awarded, as in such scenarios the “Dr” title is being phased out.
Although Prof. Aquilina did provide useful information and details regarding the method of assessment and “Professional Practice Portfolio” that must be prepared by students, those present were frustrated as there is a general consensus that their true concerns are not being adequately addressed.
A source who shared information on the basis of anonymity informed The Third Eye that, allegedly, Prof. Aquilina did not allow for all the students’ arguments to be heard. Furthermore, when students began expressing their general disappointment in relation to the course, the Dean did not answer any further questions and left the meeting.
When contacted by The Third Eye for her feedback on the outcome of the meeting, Student Representative, Ms Mariah Mula replied as follows:
Several of our pressing concerns, such as the issue of whether we will be receiving the Dr title upon graduating, have been left in the dark since the Dean has stated that they do not fall within his remit. Hence, as Student Representative I will do my utmost to raise these issues with the appropriate authorities and Minister.
At this point, this portal has been made aware that discussions for a meeting with the Justice Minister, Hon. Owen Bonnici, are underway. Furthermore, it is evident that the students concerned, their respective Student Representatives and all law student organisations (ELSA Malta, GhSL and JCA) are up in arms and shall continue to work together to tackle the situation.
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