The Africa Centre for Collaborative Dispute Resolution (ACCoDR) has held graduation for its maiden cohort in Accra.
The cohort graduated with Advanced Certificate in Mediation, Arbitration and Paralegal Practice (ACMAPP) after 16-weeks training programme in Mediation, Arbitration and Paralegal Practice.
Addressing the gathering during the graduation ceremony, the founder and President, Mr. Isaac Asare, acknowledged that the journey through this programme has been nothing short of remarkable and untiring effort.
He continued that “balancing professional commitments, family duties, and the demands of learning, some of you even joined classes while navigating through traffic or attending to household chores.”
He expressed his deepest gratitude to the facilitators and officials whose tireless efforts ensured the success of this programme.
He further noted that their guidance, expertise, and unwavering support have been instrumental in shaping the skills of the graduands and preparing them for the challenges ahead.
Mr. Asare told the graduates that as they step into the world equipped with the knowledge and skills acquired through this comprehensive training they are also ambassadors of AfCCoDR.
Furthermore, “as you embark on our respective paths in mediation, arbitration, and paralegal practice, it is imperative to anchor our actions in the principles outlined in the Alternative Dispute Resolution Act 2010 (Act 798)”, he advised them.
Mr. Asare told them to let Act 798 be their guiding light in navigating the complexities of dispute resolution whilst respecting parties’ autonomy and confidentiality.
He again advised them to recognize the boundaries of their expertise while they may possess a deep understanding of legal frameworks, they must refrain from offering legal advice beyond our purview.
“Let integrity be our compass, guiding every action and decision we make in service to our clients and communities. You are a mediator, arbitrator or paralegal simplicita, you are not a lawyer nor a judge.
“Any misconduct or misrepresentation will not be tolerated, and the Centre reserves the right to recall certificates in such instances”, he noted.
Mr. Asare urged the government to prioritize the full implementation of Act 798 by establishing a National ADR Centre.
“Such an institution would not only set the standard for ADR practice in Ghana but also pave the way for our nation to emerge as a beacon of ADR excellence in Africa”, he explained.
He concluded by urging them to work together to ensure sustainable peace and justice for all through ADR and Paralegal practice.
