MOUNT Gambier high school students have been given insight into South Australia’s judicial system by one its highest-ranking officials.
South Australian Chief Justice Chris Kourakis met with Mount Gambier and Grant high school students last month, detailing his career path “from country to Victoria Square”.
Chief Justice Kourakis offered suggestions to students interested in legal studies, encouraging them to travel and diversify themselves to better understand varying emotions and people.
He also urged students to read, stating “when you read you’re getting to understand someone else’s perspective”.
The session also provided the chance for students to ask questions, including Mount Gambier High School Year 12 student Angel Aguinaldo who quizzed the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the legal system.
The Chief Justice spent considerable time explaining how AI will have lots of positive applications in law, but added law required an understanding of culture, ethics, and humanity that a machine could not be taught to understand.
Mount Gambier High School Year 11 student Marni Black said it was a rewarding experience that gave insight into the career path she hoped to one day take.
“It was extremely informative to learn from someone in the system as to what changes he feels need to be made and how he has a part to play in modifying laws as they are introduced,” Year 12 student Alexis Lunnay added.
Mount Gambier High School principal Peter McLaren said Chief Justice Kourakis’ visit made an impact on students who attended and further cemented the career aspirations of some.
“I felt privileged and thoroughly enjoyed meeting with Chief Justice Chris Kourakis and listening to his insights into law,” Mr McLaren said.
“I particularly liked his reference to growing up as a young country boy who was educated through public education and with supportive parents, believed he could achieve anything he wanted.”
