Kampala, 4th August 2025 – In a landmark decision, the Cabinet has approved the repeal of the Law Development Centre (LDC) Act, Cap. 251, marking the end of the institution’s exclusive hold on the Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice (Bar Course). The move paves the way for accredited universities and law schools across Uganda to offer the program, significantly decentralizing legal education and expanding access for aspiring lawyers.
Key Reforms Underway
- Decentralization of Training:
The new National Legal Examinations Centre will oversee a unified examination system for the Bar Course, ensuring consistent standards across all accredited institutions. This shift aims to alleviate overcrowding at the LDC while maintaining rigorous quality control. - Pre-Entry Examination for 2026 Intake:
To manage admissions fairly, the LDC will conduct a Pre-entry Examination for the Academic Year 2026, with details to be announced by 1st September 2025. This exam will help regulate student numbers without compromising educational standards. - Transition Timeline:
The current LDC students (2024/2025 intakes) will complete their studies in December 2025. The next Academic Year begins in January 2026 under the new framework, with multiple institutions expected to participate.
Why This Matters
- Increased Accessibility: More students can pursue legal training without being constrained by LDC’s limited capacity.
- National Standards: The centralized examination system ensures uniformity in qualifications.
- Modernization: The reforms align with global trends of diversifying legal education providers while safeguarding professionalism.
Next Steps
Prospective students should watch for official announcements on the Pre-entry Exam via LDC’s social media and newspapers by September 2025. Accredited institutions will soon be listed as the new system takes shape.
This historic change promises to transform Uganda’s legal education landscape, fostering inclusivity and excellence in the profession.
Source: Law Development Centre (LDC) Official Communication | 4th August 2025
