Meet Juventus Duorinaah, who sets record as the first deaf Lawyer in Ghana

However, Juventus’ academic path was marked by different challenges, especially with communications. The last time he studied alongside deaf peers was in 2007. From then on, he was often the only deaf student in his classes.

This meant struggling not only with lectures, but also with everyday social interaction, group discussions, shared jokes, spontaneous debates, and informal networking moments that shape university life.

At Cardiff University, he studied without sign language interpreters. Instead, he relied on a palantypist to transcribe lectures in real time. It required immense concentration, patience, and discipline.

He recalls the loneliness that sometimes accompanied the journey. “I have a few friends, but most of the time we are unable to interact freely and effectively. Sometimes we just wave at each other,” he shared.

Yet he refused to withdraw. He studied late into the night, sought clarification from supportive classmates, and kept moving forward.

Behind every milestone in Juventus’ journey was a network of people who believed in him. He credits his family, especially his older brother, for constant encouragement. His wife also played a crucial role, supporting him through the rigors of his academic training.

At the University of Ghana School of Law, he found mentors who shaped his legal understanding. Professor Luke Clement deeply influenced his thinking on law and human rights.

And Prof. Thomas Stephens inspired him with his mastery of legal principles and his engagement with students. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when lectures moved online, accessibility became even more complicated.

But with the support of faculty members,  his lectures were approachable and less intimidating, and he continued his training without retreating.

He was called to the Supreme Court of Ghana in 2024. Now he is preparing to finish his pupilage,  the final stage before fully establishing his legal career.

“Never see your disabilities as barriers. Instead, view them as opportunities to do something different,” he said, encouraging others like himself.

He emphasizes that individuals with disabilities possess the same intellectual capacity as anyone else. He also calls on parents to invest in the education of children with disabilities and to see them as blessings rather than burdens.

Today, Juventus mentors young deaf students interested in studying law, determined to ensure they are not the last, but the first of many. His dream is to become a judge, to enhance justice delivery, and ensure that deaf individuals in Ghana understand their legal rights.