Cavendish University Uganda has launched a new course, the Diploma in Paralegal Studies (DPS), aimed at providing legal education and awareness to prisoners in the country. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. John Francis Mugisha, and the Executive Director, Mr. David Mutabanura, revealed this initiative during a briefing ahead of the 12th University graduation ceremony scheduled for August 10.

In addition to the DPS course, the university has also introduced two other courses: the Master of Information Technology (MIT) for students in related technology programs and a Higher Certificate in Biological Sciences. These additions to the curriculum were announced by Mr. Mutabanura during a press conference at the university’s headquarters in Kampala.

The collaboration between the university and the non-governmental organization Justice Defenders Uganda led to the development of the DPS course, which will primarily be conducted within prisons to benefit the incarcerated population. However, it is also open to individuals from various backgrounds who wish to gain a basic understanding of the law in areas such as family law, criminal law, and property law.

Mr. Mutabanura emphasized that the course is not limited to prisoners, as it is also open to professionals working in law enforcement and other government offices. By taking this course, they can enhance their legal and administrative skills, providing support to lawyers in both private practice and government institutions, including the Attorney General’s office.

Furthermore, the university demonstrated its commitment to social corporate responsibility by offering various scholarships to support students with financial constraints and outstanding academic achievements. These scholarships include 42 scholarships in total, consisting of 30 merit-based and 12 leadership-based scholarships. Additionally, special scholarships are available, such as the Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga scholarship for female law students, the Benjamin Mkapa scholarship for Tanzanian students, and the Riek Machar scholarships.