The School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS) at North South University hosted the inaugural session of the North South University SHSS Alumni Colloquium Series on January 23, 2025.
Ms. Sayere Nazabi Sayem, an alumna of the Department of Law and a Research Associate at Tanjib Alam and Associates, presented a paper titled "Exploring the Viability of Preprints in the 'Exclusive' Domain of Legal Scholarship."
The event took place in the SHSS Dean's Conference Room, with Dr. Ishtiaque Ahmed, Associate Professor and Chairman of the Department of Law, moderating the session. Dr. Md. Rizwanul Islam, Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences and Professor in the Department of Law, provided the opening remarks and shared his knowledge on the significance of preprints in legal research.
Faculty members and students from SHSS, attended the lecture. The colloquium series aims to showcase the work of NSU alumni, fostering intellectual growth and exploring the research potential of students.
Ms. Sayem in her keynote speech highlighted the growing recognition of preprints in various academic fields, although they are less accepted in humanitarian disciplines like law. She noted that the traditional hierarchy of publications in legal research can limit the wider dissemination of studies, and preprints could serve as a valuable alternative. She also pointed out that other "micro-writings," such as academic blogs, are gaining acceptance in legal scholarship, and preprints could be the next step for these scholars. Finally, Ms. Sayem emphasized the importance of recognizing preprints as a legitimate form of reference in legal scholarship, despite the resistance from many legal journals.
During the Q&A session, faculty members and students engaged with the keynote speaker on integration of preprints into legal scholarship and its accessibility. The seminar concluded with Dr. Md. Rizwanul Islam presenting a crest to the keynote speaker in appreciation of her valuable insights into preprints and its potential benefits in legal academia.
