Samantha Chigogo Herald Correspondent
Zimbabwe will soon offer degree programmes in Forensic Science for members of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) to strengthen measures in combating crime.
This comes as the country made history on Tuesday following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Home Affairs and the University of Zimbabwe in the establishment of a Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree programme in Forensic Science.
Addressing delegates at the MoU signing ceremony in Harare, University of Zimbabwe (UZ) Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) Professor Pedzisai Mashiri said the forensic degree programme would intensify investigation operations nationwide.
“The degree programme is unique in that it is the first in Zimbabwe and one of the few in the region and on the continent and there is no doubt that the programme will be of immense benefit to the nation ,the ministry of Home Affairs, its departments and other stakeholders,” he said.
“The University of Zimbabwe will also bring on board the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs so that the judiciary can also be conversant with forensic science evidence as they deliver judgments in courts.”
Prof Mashiri said forensic science was gaining momentum worldwide.
“Internationally, Forensic Science is gaining tremendous recognition because it provides the most reliable source of scientific evidence in criminal cases investigated by police and brought before criminal justice systems,” he said.
“The University has also made arrangements for international forensic experts to come and teach on the programme on a visiting basis,” Prof Mashiri said.
“This will give the programme a high international standing as we aim to become a leader in this field in sub-Saharan Africa.
“The teaching of some very important core courses which include Forensic Science and Ethics, Forensic Science Administration and Crime Scene Investigations will be assisted by departments in the Ministry of Home Affairs and this will ensure students receive appropriate practical exposure.”
The permanent secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs Mr Melusi Matshiya said the MoU would promote development of cooperation in the fields of forensic science research and training in the two organisations through joint activities and exchanges to be determined and implemented through mutually agreed procedures.
He said a number of officers had already shown great interest in joining the programme.
Criminal and Investigations Department Director Senior Assistant Commissioner Godfrey Munyonga said the role and impact of forensic proficiency in the country should not be understated.
“Contemporary investigation requires the use of science and technology in the forensic investigations and the gathering and presentation of forensic evidence is key to the investigation and prosecution of crime where scientific evidence is vital and most needed,” he said.