May 2009
The University of Pristina Law Faculty, with ABA Rule of Law Initiative (ABAROLI) support, launched the Women Law Students’ Association (WLSA) in Kosovo. The organization is the first of its kind in the country. The 22 students who attended the launching event committed to volunteer their time to develop the association.
At the association’s first meeting, ABA ROLI Legal Specialist Dawn Schock introduced the guests and said that the WLSA will foster cooperative relationships among women law students through social networking, enhancing both their education and their careers. Dean Hava Ismajli said the Law Faculty will support the association. Kathy Ladun, ABA ROLI interim country director in Kosovo, and Luljeta Gjonbalaj, from the U.S. Agency for International Development, also attended the event.
Ladun commended the students for wanting to take part in this initiative and urged them to make the association “a forum to address common issues of interest for the members and a support network as they make the transition from students to legal professionals.”
While ABA ROLI will assist in guiding the organization, motivated students will take the lead in organizing programs and activities.
“A voluntary organization such as the WLSA is only as successful as its members make it,” said Shock.
The WLSA will elect its leaders and officers in the coming months. Its members said they are excited to have the association.
“It’s a great initiative,” said student Nurishah Knushaj, “I am proud to be one of its first members.”
The WLSA will provide a critical arena where women law students can develop and enhance their leadership skills.
To learn more about our work in Kosovo, contact the ABA Rule of Law Initiative at <[email protected]>.