Enhancing Law Curriculum at Ajman University: Exploring Innovative Approaches

Ajman University's law school held its first advisory council meeting to align legal education with real-world practice and prepare graduates for the UAE's evolving legal landscape. The council, led by Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Nuaimi, brings together academic experts and legal professionals to bridge the gap between classroom learning and courtroom reality.

The meeting focused on updating curricula to match current legislative changes and job market demands. This matters because UAE law is constantly evolving as the country grows as a business hub. Law graduates need practical skills, not just theoretical knowledge.

Sheikh Dr. Mohammed, who also heads Ajman Port and Customs Department, emphasized the council's role as a connector between academic study and professional practice. The goal is producing lawyers who can actually draft legislation and understand how government institutions work through hands-on workshops with specialized committees and experienced professors.

Here's what makes this significant: The UAE legal system operates differently from Western models, blending Islamic law with modern commercial regulations. Local law schools must prepare graduates for this unique environment while maintaining international standards.

The council plans to enrich academic programs with field experience and encourage applied research that strengthens justice and rule of law. This approach reflects broader efforts across Gulf states to develop homegrown legal talent rather than relying heavily on foreign expertise.

For the legal sector, this initiative could mean better-prepared local lawyers entering the market. Currently, many UAE law firms still recruit heavily from abroad due to skills gaps among local graduates. If successful, Ajman University's model could be replicated across other regional institutions.

The advisory council includes Dr. Khalid Al Saleh, the university's deputy director for academic affairs, along with law school deans from other local universities and senior executives from government and private sector organizations. The diverse membership ensures recommendations reflect both academic rigor and market realities.