Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika delivered compelling opening remarks during the Continuing Legal Education (CLE) session on Disputes & Commercial Law held yesterday, September 3rd, at the Crown Hotel in Port Moresby. Addressing an audience of lawyers, Legal Training Institute (LTI) students, and other legal professionals, Sir Gibbs highlighted the critical importance of ongoing education within the legal profession in Papua New Guinea (PNG). In his address, Sir Gibbs underscored that obtaining a law degree does not automatically make one a lawyer. He clarified that only after completing legal training and being formally admitted by the courts can a graduate be recognized as a lawyer. “You don't take for granted that everybody who graduates with a law degree from the university is a lawyer. No, don't call yourself a lawyer after you graduate... You become a lawyer only after you’re admitted as one by the courts,” he asserted, emphasizing the structured process required for full legal admission. The Chief Justice also stressed the importance of mentorship, encouraging young lawyers to actively seek guidance from their more experienced colleagues. He highlighted that senior lawyers possess a wealth of knowledge and experience that is essential for the professional growth of younger practitioners. “Don’t be shy or afraid to seek advice or opinions from senior lawyers,” he advised, noting that the exchange of knowledge between generations is vital for the advancement of legal practice. Sir Gibbs’s remarks also touched on the broader need for continuous professional development in the legal field. He expressed that ongoing learning is essential for maintaining a competent and effective legal profession, which in turn, upholds the rule of law and justice in Papua New Guinea. The Chief Justice’s address set a strong foundation for the CLE session, reinforcing the critical role of education and mentorship in shaping a robust legal community in PNG.