Judiciary of Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the Judicial and Legal Training Institute (JLTI) and with the support of UNICEF, has launched an intensive three-day training program aimed at enhancing the capacity of Magistrates across the country in the adjudication of cases involving juveniles.

The training, which commenced at the Lia Hotel in Lungi Town, Port Loko District, underscores the Judiciary’s commitment to ensuring that cases involving children are handled with the utmost care and consideration.

This training is a crucial initiative designed to equip judicial officers with the necessary skills and knowledge to address the unique challenges presented by juvenile cases.

Hon. Justice Reginald Fynn (JA), Deputy Chairman of the Judicial and Legal Training Institute, emphasized the importance of continuous professional development for judicial officers, noting that such training ensures the effective administration of justice. “Children and young persons represent a distinct category of offenders,” he stated, “and they require a tailored approach in both sentencing and rehabilitation.”

The training sessions will cover a wide range of topics, including the development of sentencing guidelines for juvenile offenders, the legal framework for child-centered adjudication, and practical approaches to courtroom management in juvenile cases.

Hon. Justice Fynn highlighted that the aim is to foster a judicial environment where the special needs and vulnerabilities of children are fully recognized and addressed.

UNICEF’s involvement in this initiative reflects the organization’s longstanding commitment to child justice in Sierra Leone. In a statement delivered by Hon. Justice Monfred Sesay (JA), Vice President of the Court of Appeal, UNICEF was praised for its relentless support in advancing the rights of children within the judicial system.

Justice Sesay acknowledged the significant strides made towards establishing a specialized justice system for children, noting that the training is a testament to the Judiciary’s dedication to upholding child rights and ensuring that justice is administered with the child’s best interests at heart.

The workshop will explore key issues such as diversion programs and alternatives to detention, effective cross-examination techniques for child witnesses, and the integration of social services and probation officers in juvenile cases.

With over 28 Magistrates participating, this training is poised to have a profound impact on the way juvenile cases are handled in Sierra Leone, ensuring that the nation’s judiciary remains responsive to the evolving needs of its most vulnerable citizens.

The initiative is also part of a broader effort to expand the Sexual Offences Court, further solidifying the Judiciary’s role in protecting the rights of children and fostering a more just and equitable society for future generations.