Young Liberian scholar Jess Walker has graduated with First Class Honors in Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) from the University of Lay Adventist of Kigali (UNILAK) in Rwanda, marking a significant milestone in his academic and leadership journey.
Walker, a member of the UNILAK Class of 2026, also delivered a speech on behalf of more than 200 graduating students from across Africa during the university’s graduation ceremony.
His academic achievements extend beyond the classroom. His final-year thesis examined Liberia’s legal and institutional framework for the domestication of international crimes and was subsequently published and shared with relevant authorities in Liberia.
Walker has also distinguished himself in law-moot competitions. Among his achievements are winning Best Mooter at his university’s Law Society, Best Prosecutor and Overall Best Speaker at the International Committee of the Red Cross Law Moot Competition in Rwanda, and Best Closing Argument at the African Law Students’ Association Mock Trial Competition.
He has also served in student leadership roles, including International Students’ Representative and Director of Moot and Research. His interests include International Humanitarian Law, Artificial Intelligence governance in armed conflict, nuclear law and diplomacy.
Walker also participated in the Africa Nuclear Summit in 2025 and 2026. As he joins the UNILAK Class of 2026, he leaves the university with a First Class degree and a record of academic achievement, advocacy, leadership and engagement in international affairs.
