Grand inauguration of ICLS’s new, purpose-built campus
International College for Legal Studies (ICLS) marked a historic milestone in legal education on November 18, 2025, with the grand inauguration of its new, purpose-built campus located on Main Kamahan Road, Lahore.
The vision and efforts behind this significant expansion were spearheaded by Dean ICLS, Sarah Tarar, along with the core leadership team, whose commitment to advancing legal education in Pakistan was the driving force for the new campus.
The auspicious occasion was graced by the Honourable Minister of State, Barrister Aqeel Malik, who served as the Chief Guest. He was joined by Ms. Patricia McKellar, Dean of Undergraduate Laws, who attended as the Guest of Honor to celebrate this significant expansion of legal education infrastructure in Pakistan. Mr. Saad Wasim, Regional Advisor, South Asia, University of London, Mr. Usama Malik, Director, Directorate of Legal Education at the Pakistan Bar Council and Ben Lawton of the British Council shared very encouraging words for the future success of ICLS.
The event commenced with a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony, unveiling a modern facility designed to foster academic excellence and practical legal training. The new campus features advanced lecture halls, a dedicated moot court, and extensive research libraries, reflecting ICLS’s commitment to providing world-class education to aspiring lawyers.
In his keynote address, Barrister Aqeel Malik commended the college administration for their investment in the future of Pakistan’s legal fraternity. Ms. Patricia McKellar, representing the international academic community, highlighted the global standards of the institution.
During the ceremony, she joined Barrister Malik on stage to present degrees to the graduating class. A highlight of the evening was the special recognition accorded to the Dean’s Honour List, where high-achieving students were awarded for their exceptional academic performance in their undergraduate law degrees. One of the students, Amna Siddiqui, was also given the exclusive Brigid Cotter prize, being one of only four students from the world to get it for exceptional performance worldwide.
The ceremony underscored ICLS’s academic portfolio. It is a Recognised Teaching Centre of the University of London for its LLB (Hons) programme, widely respected for its rigorous approach to legal theory and practice. Students also benefit from pathways such as the Certificate of Higher Education in Common Law, which provides a structured route into the full degree programme. In addition, ICLS supports candidates preparing for the Bar Transfer Test, enabling qualified professionals to meet international standards and expand their career options. ICLS is recognised by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan and the Pakistan Bar. This recognition reflects the college’s commitment to quality and ensures that its students receive education grounded in global benchmarks and professional standards.
Following the academic proceedings, the evening transitioned into a celebration of culture and community. Faculty, guests and students were treated to a soulful Qawali Night that concluded the event on a memorable note, symbolising both the achievements of the moment and the vibrant future of legal education at ICLS.
