– by Noluthando Makhaza
Whenever a criminal act is committed, the justice system is obligated to administer equity in an effective and efficient manner. Such processes tend to be extremely lengthy, involving various complex techniques which are critical and of crucial value throughout the process. In order to ensure that such processes are facilitated accurately, a team of experienced and knowledgeable officers needs to be put in place. Over the past few months, a group of delegates embarked on a journey to enhance their knowledge and practical skills in forensic investigations and attended the Certificate in Forensic Investigation Techniques twelve-day training programme. The group comprised of police officers, detectives, attorneys, law students and others delegates who are currently in the legal industry.
This programme was facilitated by a team of facilitators who do not only possess practical industry knowledge and skills but some are also academics in the field of forensic investigations. All facilitators were kept abreast of what’s current and relevant in the South African Constitution, Human Rights and our Justice System as a whole. The facilitation team included Ms. Saajida Dhooma, Dr. Harold Patrick, Mr. Henry Roberts, Mr. Simphiwe Phungula, Mr. Shaun Kruger and Ms. Margaret Kruger. The key focus areas included but were not limited to the following: “Basic accounting concepts”, “Forensic auditing”, “Polygraph testing and truth verification instruments”, “Digital forensics”, “Labour legislation and disciplinary enquiries”, “Practical interviewing skills”, and “Giving evidence as a Forensic Investigator”. The above mentioned modules were covered over a period of two months where delegates attended lectures in block sessions.
Sharing her experience with us at the end of the programme, Ms. Nelisiwe Mhlongo who works as a Detective at SAPS stated the following:
“I found the course to be extremely relevant and interesting in such a way that it gave me clues for the kind of work that I do. In most cases when I am required to perform section 205, I normally submit some of the work to an Analyst, but after attending the first block session, I learnt a very important skill which has empowered me to perform Section 205 duties all by myself without having to take the work to the Analyst. This has been one of my greatest achievements thus far and has helped improve the workflow amongst our team at my workplace. I am now better equipped with the right knowledge and skills to perform all my investigative duties at work, all thanks to the knowledgeable team of facilitators who were extremely amazing throughout the programme”.
At UKZN Extended Learning, we pride ourselves in offering the best skills development training programmes and we aim to empower more people who are willing to take a step forward into bettering themselves. Not only do our programmes improve your work skills but they enhance self-growth and self-development too. Should you wish to enquire or register for any of our programmes, please contact:
Nashlene Maharaj
T: +27 31 260 3711
