PMS Academy Fellowship Program

Overview

PMS Academy initiated its fellowship program in 2023 with a mission to mentor and guide newly licensed advocates aspiring to become proficient Public Interest Litigation (PIL) lawyers. This initiative is designed to support the next generation of legal professionals committed to environmental protection and social justice.

 Objectives

• Mentorship: To provide personalized mentorship to young advocates, helping them navigate the complexities of PIL.
• Professional Development: To enhance the skills and knowledge of fellows through workshops, seminars, and practical exposure.
• Promote Public Interest Law: To encourage new lawyers to engage in public interest law, emphasizing its importance in promoting justice and societal well-being.

Fellowship Details

Eligibility

• Applicants must be newly licensed lawyers who have passed the Nepal Bar Council examination.
• Candidates must secure a position within the top 50 of the Bar aspirants in the examination.

Number of Fellowships

• Annual Awards: Two fellowships will be awarded each year.

Recognition

The fellowships are awarded in honor of:

• Hari Prasad Pradhan: The first Chief Justice of Nepal, recognized for his contributions to the judiciary.
• Devnath Prasad Verma: The Founder Chair of the Nepal Bar Association, celebrated for his efforts in advocating for legal reform and access to justice.

Selection Process

• Application Submission: Candidates must submit their applications, including academic records.
• Evaluation Criteria: Applications will be assessed based on academic performance, commitment to public interest law, and potential for impact in the field followed by written examination.
• Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by a panel of experienced legal professionals and educators.
• Final Selection: Two fellows will be selected based on the overall evaluation.

Fellowship Benefits

• Mentorship: Fellows will be paired with experienced PIL lawyers who will provide guidance and support throughout the fellowship year.
• Training and Workshops: Access to specialized training sessions focused on PIL practices, legal research, advocacy skills, and courtroom strategies.
• Networking Opportunities: Opportunities to connect with leaders in the legal community and participate in relevant legal forums and events.
• Financial Support: A reasonable fund will be paid for the fellowship period. 

Fellowship Period

The fellowship will be for the period of ten months.