Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Bioscience, University for Development Studies (UDS), Isaac Oboakoh, has called on the government to strengthen forensic science institutions and training in the country so as to support human rights protection.
He stated that forensic science prioritization would enhance peace and justice institutions to protect human rights, which would help to ensure proper security and safety for citizens.
Strengthening the institutions must include empowering institutions to issue accreditations and certificates and also regulate the ethics of the profession and seek forensic inputs for crime fighting, among others.
“The broadening of the knowledge of citizens in forensic science and the strengthening of the institutions of the country ensure effective development and accountability and transparency at all levels of decision-making.
It would also help to protect human rights as well as curb indiscipline in the country, which would result in achieving the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) – goal 16, which is tackles “peace, justice, and strong institutions and aimed at promoting peaceful and inclusive societies, providing access to justice for all, and building effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels,” he said.
The senior lecturer who spoke on the theme: “the scope of forensic science practice in Ghana,” at a seminar held at the Nyankpala campus of UDS, said this, when done, would boost security in the country.
The event brought together experts in the field of forensic science to dialogue on how academia and forensic scientists can assist law enforcement agencies and the legal system in fulfilling their primary functions, such as prevention, detection, investigation of crime and delivery of justice.
“Forensic science is science for justice. When a crime happens, the crime must be resolved and it must be resolved urgently. We need a comprehensive solution to crime,” he added.
He called on government agencies and policymakers, law enforcement agencies, educational institutions, forensic science professionals, the media, and other relevant stakeholders to work together to create an environment that supports the development and use of forensic science in the country.
He said the ability to include forensics into the educational curriculum would help enhance the knowledge of students on forensic investigations to address both academic and social issues.
