The National Virtual Internship & Mentorship Program for Law Students (NVIMPLS) is a noteworthy initiative of the Foundation, aimed at providing aspiring legal professionals with hands-on experience, mentorship, and practical skills to excel in their legal careers. This innovative program offers a transformative virtual internship experience designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world legal practice.
Through NVIMPLS, participants gain practical insights into various aspects of the legal profession, including legal research and advocacy. Under the guidance of experienced mentors and legal practitioners, interns are exposed to diverse legal scenarios, allowing them to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills essential for success in the legal field.
Aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 4, NVIMPLS promotes lifelong learning and capacity building among aspiring legal professionals, empowering them to become agents of positive change in their communities. By equipping participants with practical skills and mentorship opportunities, NVIMPLS contributes to the development of a skilled and empowered legal workforce capable of addressing complex legal challenges and promoting access to justice for all.
Held annually for undergraduate law students within the country, NVIMPLS provides a consistent platform for learning, growth, and professional development. From the hundreds of applications the Foundation receives for NVIMPLS, only 100 participants are admitted each year.
2023 Edition
The 2023 edition of NVIMPLS saw the graduation of 50 participants. Among them, Timothy Wisdom won the Most Committed Intern award, Cynthia Ibor received the Best in Professionalism and Communication award, and Olasunkanmi Amos was awarded Best in Post Tests. These graduates exemplify the program’s impact in nurturing future legal professionals.
2024 Edition
The 2024 edition, which received over 600 applications, saw the graduation of 57 participants. Notable awardees included Ude Ebubechukwu Praise from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (Enugu Campus) for Best in Post-Tests; Innocent Saint Ameh from Benue State University for Best in Professionalism and Communication; and Stephanie Chika Ezeugwu from Godfrey Okoye University for Most Committed Intern.
Additionally, Elesho Oluwabukolami Morenike from the University of Ibadan won a #100,000 cash award, given by Dr. Cynthia Umezulike, a distinguished Human Rights Barrister, Gender & Women’s Rights Specialist, and Co-Chair of the Foundation, who also served as one of the mentors for the cohort.
Through these awards and the overall structure of the program, NVIMPLS continues to highlight the importance of mentorship, practical experience, and professional development in shaping the future of legal professionals.
