Gambia’s only public versity to establish Forensic Entomology lab
By ALIMATOU S. BAJINKA
The University of The Gambia through its Department of Biology has been awarded a grant by the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) to establish a Forensic Entomology Laboratory at the University of The Gambia.
The research is conducted by Professor Ado-Baba Ahmed of UTG Biology Department in collaboration with Dr. Denise Maria Gemmellaro, School of Natural Sciences, Kean University, New Jersey, USA.
Forensic entomology is the application of the study of insects and other arthropods in criminal investigations.
Prof. Herbert Robinson, Vice Chancellor UTG said, forensic entomology can only be driven by passion, while reassuring their commitment in carrying out the task.
“We are committed to scaling up research in this particular area in partnership with key stakeholders and we are open in supporting the application of research to facilitate real world solutions particularly crime solving, because it has become a major problem in most African countries which needs to be addressed, and science and research is our key to solve real world crimes,” said Robinson.
He was speaking at a public lecture at NaNa Conference Center.
Dr. Muhammed Lamin Sanyang, Directorate of Research and Consultancy UTG said, research is the backbone of science, therefore students should equip themselves through research activities, most especially in forensic science as research is moving away from just publication but also to make changes.
Prof. Ado-Baba Ahmed, Biology Unit UTG emphasised the need to establish networking and collaboration in the academia.
“The goal of this project is to establish a dedicated forensic entomology laboratory to offer support during investigations, conduct and promote research and provide professional and academic training,” said Mr Ahmed.
This laboratory is said to represent the first step towards a stronger practice of forensic science in the country.
About The Author
