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30 November 2023, Islamabad - The paralegal staff in Balochistan confronts a variety of challenges that stem from a combination of geographical, capacity constraints, and socio-economic factors. Operating in remote districts, these professionals often grapple with limited access to legal resources, hindering their ability to stay abreast of the latest skills and know-how. Additionally, the nature of the routine work settings of paralegals often results in a scarcity of training opportunities, inhibiting learning and professional growth, which translates into inefficiencies across the justice delivery ecosystem in Balochistan. 
In a pioneering training initiative funded by the European Union's Deliver Justice Project and executed by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), a cohort of 24 dedicated paralegal staff from Districts and Sessions Courts in Balochistan underwent comprehensive learning. The training was conducted in partnership with the Balochistan Judicial Academy (BJA). The modules were spread over two streams of rigorous sessions of two day each, delivered from 22-23, and 28-29 November 2023 at the BJA by experts and trainers from UNODC. 
The aim of the training was to hone communications skills, perfect case diary writing, enhance case flow management, improve the role of the reader, ensure compliance with court orders, and embrace technology for trial courts. The multifaceted nature of training sought to elevate productivity, streamline court proceedings, and ensure more efficient and accessible paralegal services to support the justice system in Balochistan.
Paralegal staff serve as guardians of the legal process, ensuring that court orders are implemented promptly and accurately. The training instilled a sense of responsibility and understanding among participants regarding the importance of ensuring strict adherence to court procedures. As confidently stated by Adam Khan, Reader to District Magistrate in Barkhan, “As someone coming from the remote district of Barkhan, this training is a rare opportunity for individuals like us who seldom have access to such comprehensive learning. The depth of knowledge acquired, especially in paralegal techniques, is transformative in our daily practices.” 
Furthermore, legal proceedings often understate the role of the reader. The training emphasized the significance of this role, providing participants with insights into effective reading techniques to distill complex legal texts. Salahuddin, a senior stenographer serving in the Judicial Magistrate in Uthal claimed, “This opportunity allowed me, along with my colleagues, to identify and rectify errors that might have otherwise gone unnoticed. The learnings extend beyond correction; they encompass new paralegal procedures and techniques, contributing significantly to my professional growth.” The paralegal staff also learned how to harness technology for more efficient evidence presentation, video conferencing, and overall trial court management.
In conclusion, paralegal training is a major step towards improving paralegals' skills and transforming them into efficient and productive workforce to ensure accessible and efficient justice for all in Balochistan.
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