The International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), University of Karachi, in collaboration with the Sindh Forensic DNA and Serology Laboratory (SFDL), organized a one-day “Forensic DNA Awareness Session for Media Professionals” aimed at promoting responsible and accurate reporting on DNA-related cases.
The session, held at SFDL-ICCBS, brought together journalists from education, science, health, and crime beats to enhance their understanding of forensic DNA’s technical and ethical dimensions. The initiative sought to bridge the gap between scientific experts and the media, fostering informed and ethical communication of sensitive forensic information to the public.
The event was jointly organized by SFDL, ICCBS, and the Education Reporters Association Karachi, with participation from members of the Health Reporters Association (HRA) and Crime Reporters Association Karachi.
Prof Dr Muhammad Raza Shah, Director of ICCBS, welcomed participants and highlighted the crucial role of collaboration between scientists and journalists. He noted that accurate and ethical media reporting on DNA evidence is essential for public trust in the justice system. Dr Shah underscored that since its inception, SFDL has contributed significantly to major criminal investigations and disaster victim identification efforts across the province.
Dr Ishtiaq Ahmad Khan, Project Director and In-charge of SFDL, emphasized the importance of media training in understanding forensic DNA evidence. He noted that the laboratory has handled more than 9,500 cases, producing reliable forensic reports in both DNA and serology investigations. He stressed that responsible media coverage helps prevent misinformation and promotes scientific literacy among the public.
Addressing the participants, Dr Sumaiya Syed Tariq, Police Surgeon Karachi, spoke on the ethical aspects of health and forensic reporting. She urged journalists to rely on verified information, avoid speculation, and cooperate with health and forensic authorities to ensure balanced coverage of sensitive cases.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Syed Jafar Askari, Media Advisor at ICCBS, followed by a panel discussion where experts and journalists exchanged insights on improving collaboration between scientific institutions and the media.
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The session reaffirmed ICCBS’s commitment to public engagement and scientific transparency, positioning the institution as a leading hub for research, innovation, and community-oriented scientific education in Pakistan.