The Rector of the Pan African Institute of Paralegal Studies in Abuja, Olajide Olakanmi Esq., has underscored the importance of basic legal knowledge for social workers, emphasizing its vital role in their professional effectiveness. During a formal presentation of book sets to the Ekiti State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in Ado Ekiti, the academic don and legal practitioner highlighted the necessity of equipping personnel in organizations and government agencies dealing with legal matters, both directly and indirectly.
Represented by a delegation led by Mr. Alani Daramola, Olajide Olakanmi stressed that contemporary challenges, including issues such as rape, gender-based violence, domestic violence, child abuse, child trafficking, and the rights of women and children under the law, require a foundational understanding of legal principles. He further emphasized the importance of legal knowledge in matters related to succession and legacies.
The Pan African Institute donated three sets of books, covering Family Law, Rape, and Succession and Legacies, to the Ministry, recognizing the critical role of government agencies like the Ministry of Women Affairs in addressing legal matters with societal implications. While the desk officers may not be qualified to represent clients in court, these books provide essential insights to tackle legal issues and enhance their administrative duties.
Olajide Olakanmi expressed the Institute’s readiness to collaborate with the ministry in personnel development, offering training and workshops in paralegal studies.
In response, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Peju Babafemi, lauded the institute and the rector for their generous gesture. She emphasized the value of continuing professional development for the ministry’s officers, especially social workers, to navigate the dynamic nature of law and evolving social welfare cases. The books, she noted, will be a valuable resource in enhancing social work practices within the state.
Mrs. Babafemi also extended gratitude on behalf of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, recognizing Olajide Olakanmi’s significant contribution to the development of Ekiti State, despite residing and working in the federal capital territory. She pledged to make optimal use of the donated books, sharing them with sister organizations and agencies to further enhance their social work and legal practices.
The gesture signifies a crucial step towards equipping social workers and enhancing their knowledge and skills to better serve the people of Ekiti State.
