We are writing to express our deep concern and dissatisfaction regarding the recent changes made to Part B of the Singapore Bar Examinations. These changes were initially announced in 2018, and it is deeply disheartening to note that, even after five years, the Singapore Institute of Legal Education has still failed to adequately prepare for these changes by 2023. We earnestly request a reconsideration of these modifications.

The recent alterations to the Part B Bar Examinations have raised a series of grave concerns that directly impact the aspirations of emerging legal professionals who are diligently working towards achieving their professional goals. While we acknowledge the need for evolution and adaptation, we believe that the changes enacted in the current format have proven to be regressive, counterproductive, and deleterious to the examination process. The following are some of the key issues we wish to bring to your attention:

1. Radical Increase in Content Tested: The sudden and substantial escalation from nine subjects to an astounding thirty-one subjects has imposed an unsustainable burden on candidates, without sufficient coordination between course conveners. This abrupt expansion has placed an unjustifiable workload on candidates, severely hampering their ability to fully grasp and effectively engage with the extensive course material.

2. Ever-Changing and Unclear Syllabuses: The lack of consistent and well-structured syllabuses and learning plans has resulted in disorientation and uncertainty among candidates. Moreover, instances of modules not uploading their syllabuses or frequently altering them, even after the course commencement, further exacerbate the confusion and hinder effective preparation.

3. Unclear Exam Format and Dates: The dearth of clear guidance on the nature, format, and timing of examinations creates a state of ambiguity and disadvantage for candidates. With one month having passed since the commencement of the five-month course, the absence of transparent information severely impedes candidates' ability to adequately prepare for the upcoming assessments.

4. Use of Outdated and Reused Materials: The incorporation of outdated and reused lecture videos is of grave concern. Lecture videos recorded as far back as 2012 and 2016, without adequate updates to encompass subsequent legal developments and precedents, renders the learning experience obsolete and detached from current legal realities.

In light of these alarming concerns, we earnestly urge the Singapore Institute of Legal Education to reevaluate the recent changes to Part B of the Singapore Bar Examinations. We respectfully request that you consider implementing the following measures:

1. Immediate Pause on the Changes: We implore you to temporarily halt the implementation of the recent changes to the examination format, allowing for an in-depth review of their impact and feasibility.

2. Reversion to Pre-2023 Part B Format: We strongly advocate for a return to the previously established Part B format, which has been tried and tested over the years, offering candidates enough working knowledge, a manageable workload, and a fair opportunity of passing the examinations.

3. Enhanced Course Design and Coordination: We recommend that the Singapore Institute of Legal Education undertake a comprehensive review of the course design and coordination to ensure a seamless and effective learning experience for all candidates.

4. Clear Communication and Transparency: We request timely and transparent communication concerning examination formats, dates, and syllabus updates to empower candidates to adequately prepare for the impending assessments.

5. Townhall Meeting for Feedback: Furthermore, we call for the organisation of a townhall meeting before 1 September 2023, which brings together all Part B candidates, faculty, and administrative staff. This townhall will provide an open forum for candid discussions, clarifications, and solutions to the pressing issues we have outlined in this petition. Such a dialogue will contribute to building a better understanding and partnership between all stakeholders involved in the Part B Bar Examinations.

In conclusion, we firmly believe that the Singapore Institute of Legal Education has a pivotal role in ensuring that the Part B course is modern, fair, structured, and aligned with the evolving demands of legal practice. The current changes have clearly fallen short of these standards, and we implore you to heed our concerns and take the necessary corrective measures.

We earnestly seek a response to this petition and an opportunity to engage in constructive dialogue aimed at addressing these pressing issues. Your thoughtful consideration and prompt attention to this matter are greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your time and understanding.

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Edit on 16 August:

1. Relevant background: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/asherljh_the-part-b-course-has-been-revamped-in-2023-activity-7097500848653565952-xlg_?utm_source=share&utm_medium [Clarification: This petition was not started by Asher. We apologise for any confusion caused.]

2. Bring this issue to the attention of SILE: https://silecpdcentre.sg/contact/

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