Juventus Duorinaah has made history as Ghana’s first deaf lawyer, marking a groundbreaking achievement for both the legal profession and the disability community in the country.
Born in Wa, in the Upper West Region of Ghana, Duorinaah’s journey is a remarkable story of perseverance and determination. Despite facing numerous challenges, he remained focused on his goal of becoming a lawyer, overcoming every obstacle in his path.
Early Education and Determination
Duorinaah began his educational journey at the Wa School for the Deaf, where he laid the foundation for his future academic success. In 2007, he graduated from the Senior High Technical School for the Deaf (SHTSD), demonstrating an early commitment to academic excellence despite the barriers presented by his hearing impairment.
Academic Achievements
Determined to continue his education, Duorinaah enrolled at the University of Ghana (UG). There, he earned a first-class degree in Sociology and Political Science, showcasing both his intellectual abilities and his drive to challenge societal norms.
His pursuit of higher education did not stop there. He went on to Cardiff University in the UK, where he earned a Master of Laws (LLM) degree in Human Rights Law from the School of Law and Politics. This international experience further solidified his academic credentials and passion for human rights advocacy.
Journey to Becoming a Lawyer
Upon returning to Ghana, Duorinaah pursued an LLB degree at the University of Ghana, graduating with second-class lower honours. Following this, he successfully passed the entrance exams for the Ghana School of Law, embarking on six years of rigorous legal training.
Thanks to the support of the Ghana School of Law, Duorinaah was provided with a sign language interpreter throughout his studies. The school covered the full cost of the interpreter, ensuring that Duorinaah could focus on his legal education without additional financial burden.
A Historic Achievement
After completing his legal education, Juventus Duorinaah was officially called to the bar, making him the first deaf lawyer in Ghana. His achievement represents a significant victory, not only for himself but also for the wider disability community in Ghana.
Duorinaah’s story is a powerful example of how determination and resilience can overcome even the toughest barriers, and his success stands as an inspiration to many, showing that no obstacle is too great to achieve one’s dreams.
This milestone serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and support in ensuring that everyone, regardless of their challenges, can reach their full potential.
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