Law students criticise faculty interference on private lessons

The letter questioning the abilities of law students attending private lessons was revealed by The Malta Independent Online in September. Chamber of Advocates President Reuben Balzan was quoted as saying that the chamber was assisting the Faculty of Law in improving the course structure but was not aware of the letter.

After several attempts made by MaltaToday to contact the Dean of the Law Faculty, Professor Kevin Aquilina refused to comment on the letter claiming to have no authorisation to discuss the matter. All questions regarding the letter had to be directed to the University’s communications office.

In response to several questions, the only comment given by the office was, “The e-mail sent to students regarding private lessons was approved by the Faculty Board of Laws following receipt of a complaint that a particular person was delivering private lessons to law students. The students have two representatives on the said Board.”

No reply was given when asked whether all Law Faculty staff were notified and in agreement with the distribution of this letter although a reliable source within the Law Faculty though hesitant to answer any questions on record, seemed to be unaware of the letter.

Law Students Association (GHSL) President Stephanie Abela said last week that the Faculty should not be involved in the matter of whether students attend private lessons or not.

"Students are intelligent enough to have made it this far and they should have the choice to seek extra help should they require it. At the end of the day, they are taking private lessons to pass each year and eventually graduate from the course of their choice,” said Abela.