The Center of Digital Forensic Science and Technology, a cutting-edge institution designed to promote research, training, and digital security in Sindh, was opened by the University of Karachi.

Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Khalid Mahmood Iraqi officially launched the newly built facility, which was funded by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of the federal government. This is the first university-housed digital forensic center and the third forensic institution in Sindh.

The project is a part of a massive plan that was started in 2018 and also includes the development of several research centers and a hostel for females, according to Saeed Sheikh, Director of the Directorate of Planning and Development.

"The construction of the building is finished, and it has been handed over to the university," Sheikh told The Express Tribune. "We will soon finalize the delivery of lab equipment and other materials."

The center, according to him, closes a significant gap in Sindh's digital forensic capabilities. Only a small amount of digital forensics work is now being done by organizations like the Punjab Forensic Agency and the FIA's Cyber Crime Wing. He went on to say, "This center will consolidate all facilities under one roof and create new opportunities for training and research."

At a cost of Rs308 million, the 38,000-square-foot structure has 18 storerooms, 32 offices, 11 laboratories, and 23 classrooms. It has cutting-edge security features and features that make it accessible to those with disabilities.

An associate professor in the computer science department, Dr. Nadeem Mahmood, stated that the facility is much more than a simple structure. The next generation of professionals in this sector will be trained at this comprehensive digital forensic lab and academic center, which aims to advance forensic education in Sindh, he said.

Academic preparation will take a further two to four months, he noted, even if the construction phase is over. "The lab will assist law enforcement agencies in their digital investigations in addition to its educational functions," he continued.

Digital forensics is different from biological forensics in that it involves analyzing mobile phones, laptops, and other devices in order to retrieve and analyze digital evidence. Digital samples from Karachi were formerly required to be forwarded to the Punjab Forensic Lab in Lahore for analysis.

Speaking during the inauguration, Vice Chancellor Dr. Khalid Iraqi declared that digital forensics certificate and diploma programs would soon be offered, followed by BS, MPhil, and PhD programs.

"Modern research, technology, and hands-on training are all combined in this center," he said. "Digital forensics, cyber investigation, and mobile and computer forensics will be taught to students, researchers, and law enforcement officers experientially."

He went on to say that the CDFST will work closely with a number of departments to enhance interdisciplinary research and instruction, including the Institute of Clinical Psychology, Computer Science, Criminology, Mass Communication, Psychology, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry.

The center will become a regional center for digital forensic training and research, Dr. Iraqi said, making a substantial contribution to national security and academic advancement.

Heads of several departments, faculty, students, and the university's registrar attended the inauguration ceremony.