IFIM School Of Law: Redefining Legal Education For The Modern Era
By Dr. Aswini Patro, Principal and Professor
Law infuses nearly every facet of human existence, from the intricacies of business, economics, and politics to the complexities of environmental issues, human rights, international relations, and trade. The prominence of legal studies in shaping society is reflected in the fact that the earliest academic degrees were centered around law. IFIM School of Law is pioneering the advancement of legal education in India, providing students with a robust, modern, and hands-on legal education that equips them with the multifaceted challenges of the legal profession.
Established in 2015, IFIM School of Law is affiliated with Karnataka State Law University, a prominent state university. This affiliation ensures that the curriculum is designed and formulated by some of the best minds in the state. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of laws, providing students with plethora of options to choose from. IFIM’s unique features include a range of major and minor electives that cater to contemporary legal issues. Courses like Corporate Finance, Merger and Acquisition, Comparative Constitutional Law, Law and Literature, among others are offered alongside the core subjects ensuring students are well-versed in current legal trends.
Beyond academics, IFIM boasts of a variety of Research Centres and Committees that enhance student experiences and learnings. The Moot Court Committee ensures the students are provided with practical aspects of the legal field. IFIM has hosted three editions of national moot court competitions with its recent collaboration with the Competition Commission of India drawing participants from law schools across the country. The Centre for Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) is another significant component as ADR is an emerging field. IFIM hosts an ADR national fest named Concordat annually, fostering a deeper understanding and practical skills in dispute resolution. The Debate Society also plays a crucial role, engaging students in trending topics and discussions, and preparing them for various national and international competitions.
Unique Features & Holistic Development
In pursuit of teaching our students to give back to the society, IFIM students organize one of its signature social events Kanyathon, an annual charity run focusing on the empowerment of women and the girl child and has completed its 13th edition this year.
The institution’s four unique interventions, such as the RI, SIP, PEP, and IIP play a crucial role in student development. These interventions ensure students are not only academically proficient but also socially responsible and professionally prepared. The Personality Enhancement Program (PEP) focuses on personal development, teaching students’ essential life skills from writing articles to maintaining physical well-being. The Research Incubation (RI) trains students in legal research methodologies, ensuring they can produce high-quality research papers and publications. The Social Immersion Program (SIP) engages students in community needs, allowing them to understand societal realities and contribute through research and social initiatives.
With a focus on nurturing holistic, socially responsible & continuously employable professionals, IFIM School of Law stands out as a premier institution for legal studies in India
Preparing students for the legal industry is a significant challenge for higher education institutions. Internships are a critical component of this career preparation. The Industry Internship Program (IIP) arranges internships for students starting from their first year and continuing throughout their studies. These internships provide practical experience, bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world application.
Each student is assigned a dedicated mentor from the faculty, ensuring personalized guidance and support throughout their academic journey. In addition, our institute also emphasizes continuous interaction with seniors and alumni, fostering a sense of security and confidence among students. “The alumni network is robust, providing ongoing support and opportunities for our current students,” says Prof. Bob Nathanael, Assistant Professor at IFIM School of Law. The Centre for Continuous Employability (CCE) further supports students and alumni by maintaining strong industry connections and providing ongoing career guidance and counseling.
International Collaborations & Continuous Growth
IFIM School of Law has seen significant growth by embracing internationalization. IFIM has signed a memorandum of understanding with Texas A&M University and ISDE Law School, Spain. These collaborations allow students to participate in exchange programs, attend classes with international faculty, and receive certifications. This exposure to global legal education standards enhances their learning and broadens their perspectives.
Moreover, IFIM students have consistently excelled, topping university exams and winning various national competitions in debates, moot courts, mediation, sports and cultural activities. The institution also boasts excellent research output, with faculty publishing in Scopus-indexed journals. IFIM also houses various research centers, such as the Center for Women and Child Welfare, Centre for Intellectual Property Rights, Centre for Legal Advocacy and Centre for Environmental Law and Research. These centers allow students to engage deeply with specific legal areas, organize events, and participate in seminars and webinars, providing a well-rounded educational experience.
Looking ahead, the IFIM School of Law is dedicated to evolving its pedagogy to keep pace with the dynamic legal landscape. “Our institute’s future roadmap emphasizes practical exposure, ensuring that classroom knowledge aligns with real-world applications. By continuously updating the centers to reflect changing laws and maintaining integrated internship programs from the first semester, our law school ensures students are well-prepared and continuously employable. This holistic approach ensures our students are not just learning but are equipped to apply their knowledge effectively in the legal profession”, adds Prof. Sharu Anna John, Assistant Professor of Law, IFIM School of Law.
In conclusion, the IFIM School of Law is dedicated to enhancing the quality of legal education in India. Through a comprehensive curriculum, diverse committees, international collaborations, and unique developmental programs, it prepares students for successful careers in law. With a focus on holistic development, continuous support, and industry readiness, IFIM School of Law stands out as a premier institution for legal studies in India.