Tracy Lelei

What do you teach at Abertay and why do you enjoy working with students?

At Abertay University’s School of Business, Law and Social Sciences, I teach Law of Succession, Business Law (Accountants), and the Law Work Placement Module. I enjoy working with students because it is a precious opportunity to impact their lives. It also gives me an opportunity to contribute positively to their future. I am always delighted to watch learners transform into the professionals they desire to be. Students are also instrumental to the professional development of their instructors, and I have learned a lot from my students too.

What made you want to become an academic?

I practiced as a barrister and solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria for 7 years before commencing my career in the academia. This switch occurred when I discovered a deep sense of fulfilment every time I was able to unlock innovative ways to teach/ explain complex legal principles and see results. My inner quest to know more from a very young age steered me into engagement in relevant, cutting edge and life transforming academic research.  From children’s rights to women’s rights in Africa, Family Law and more, I enjoy finding solutions to problems through research. I strongly believe that teaching, research, and practice are intertwined. 

Why do you feel a university education is important?

A university education provides learners with an opportunity not only to earn a degree, but to acquire the skills and knowledge required by employers. It also affords learners a platform to transform their lives through their social interactions with people from different cultures and backgrounds-expanding their minds to be ready for the world of opportunities before them.

What are your research interests and which projects are you currently working on?

My research interests are in the field of Private International Law, Family Law, and Human Rights.

I am currently researching on the Intercountry adoption of children from Africa, the abuses involved in the process and the need for regulation. I am also working on child marriage in developing and developed nations using Scotland and Nigeria as case-studies.

What are you most proud of?

I am excited about my achievements as an academic and as a mother who is raising four beautiful and exceptional daughters, side by side a career in the academia. I believe women do not have to choose between having a career or being an amazing parent. It is possible to succeed in both with the right balance and support.