'English for Lawyers' program launched

by Husna Inayathullah

The Faiszer Musthapha Foundation, set up by Deputy Investment Promotion Minister Faiszer Musthapha to uplift the living conditions of the underprivileged people, launched a special program to teach English to young lawyers on Thursday.

The launching ceremony was held at the BOI Auditorium, World Trade Centre under the patronage of Attorney General Sarath Palitha Fernando PC. The guest of Honour was Justice Shiranee Tilakawardena. It was also attended by renowned legal professionals and young lawyers.

The deputy minister said the Foundation decided to empower young lawyers by teaching them spoken English as he has seen many young professionals frustrated by their inability to express themselves.

"Being a lawyer myself and having practised for over 20 years, I have come across many brilliant lawyers. However, they do not get cases simply because they are not conversant in English language," he said.He said lawyers cannot succeed without a knowledge of English. His foundation would help them succeed in their profession and personal life through the program."My aim is to eliminate the gap between English and non-English speaking classes by improving the language proficiency of the latter," he said.

The program will benefit young lawyers and will be held twice a week in the Western Province.

Shiranee Tilakawardena said, "English is one of the easiest language to learn." During her speech she made a presentation showing the importance of English.

Sarath Palitha Fernando said that most of the books related to law are written in English. If a law student wants to enrich his knowledge, English should be learnt well. The Faiszer Musthapha foundation is a non-profit organisation formed to uplift the living standard of people across the island and its focus is on promoting peace, unity, prosperity and success.