The Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA) has expressed concern over complaints from students of the Sierra Leone Law School regarding the publication of the 2025/2026 Bar Final Examination results, particularly reports that some candidates have yet to receive formal notification of their results.
In a press statement dated Tuesday, November 11, 2026, the Association said it had taken note of a notice issued by the Sierra Leone Law School on November 8, 2026, informing candidates that their examination results were sent to them by email on November 7.
According to the Law School’s notice, candidates who have not received their results may have failed the examination, failed to provide an email address, submitted an incorrect email address, or have outstanding tuition fees.
However, the SLBA said the approach raises concerns because candidates who have not received their results cannot determine whether they have failed the examination, are affected by an administrative error, or have outstanding financial obligations.
The Association stressed that every candidate who sits the Bar Final Examination is entitled to receive formal and individual written notification of their result, regardless of whether they pass or fail.
It further emphasised that the Bar Final Examination is a critical requirement for admission to the legal profession and that its administration must be transparent, fair and accountable to maintain public confidence in legal education and the legal profession.
In response to the concerns, the SLBA has called on the Registrar of the Sierra Leone Law School to ensure that every candidate receives individual written notification of their examination result, whether a pass or a fail.
The Association also urged the Law School to establish a formal written procedure, with clear timelines, through which candidates can submit concerns and grievances, in addition to the limited in-person consultation period currently available.
It further called for transparent engagement with affected candidates and regular updates on efforts to address the matter.
The SLBA disclosed that, in its capacity as a statutory member of the Council of Legal Education, it is engaging with relevant stakeholders to establish the facts surrounding the issue and secure a prompt and fair resolution.
The Association reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of legal education, upholding professional standards and ensuring that the interests of candidates and the wider legal profession are given due consideration.
For further enquiries, members of the public can contact the SLBA Secretariat on (+232) 71 496 957 or via email at info@sierraleonebarassociation.org.
