A criminologist, Prof. Ken Agyemang Attafuah, has commended the Department of Human Biology of the University of Cape Coast for initiating plans to introduce a Bachelor of Science degree programme in Forensic Science, the first of its kind in Ghana.
Prof. Attafuah, made this commendation when he delivered a lecture on the topic “The Importance of Forensic Science in Crime Detection” as part of the lecture series to sensitize the University Community on the importance of Forensic Science.
He observed that the introduction of the programme was an important impetus that would contribute to crime prevention and also help to solve many of the social and developmental problems of the country. He pointed out that “What UCC seeks to achieve is unequal anywhere in West Africa.” He therefore appealed to the University to adequately resource the Department of Human Biology to address the increasing cases of crime in the country.
Prof. Attafuah, explained that Forensic Science aimed at producing dependable scientific information to assist in the decision of disputed cases. He explained that graduates with forensic science background would be a great asset to the Security Services and state agencies like the Standard Board and the Food and Drugs Board.
The Chairman for the function, Prof. Kobina Yankson, noted that UCC had since its establishment, continued to introduce programmes that addressed vital national needs. He expressed confidence that the new programme would play a critical role in the justice system by providing scientific information to investigators.
