Forensic science in Ghana: A review

The use of forensic science continues to grow across the world. In Ghana, major advancements took off in2011, including the introduction of modern DNA profiling and the establishment of an automated fingerprint identification system. These developments have led to some positive impacts on the delivery of justice, including the exoneration of a wrongly incarcerated individual. However, a review of the policy-related aspects of forensic science shows gaps in legislation, governance, service provision, quality assurance and accreditation, education and research. An important recommendation to improve forensic science in Ghana is the creation of a “national policy strategy”, a blueprint informed by relevant stakeholders, best practice from other countries and the status of the field. Resolutions to the policy issues identified in this review will ensure a more robust application of forensic science in delivering safe justice and enhancing public security

The Geo<i>PT</i> Proficiency Testing Programme as a Scheme for the Certification of Geological Reference Materials

ISO Guide 35:2017 provides, for the first time, an alternative way of characterising certified reference materials using proficiency testing. In this paper, the properties of assigned values derived from the well-established GeoPT proficiency testing scheme are examined. This scheme, designed for laboratories that undertake the routine analysis of silicate rocks and related materials, routinely has over 100 participants contributing results. Following a detailed assessment of the metrological properties of GeoPT assigned values in relation to Guide 35 recommendations, it is demonstrated that these values may be regarded as certified values, provided a number of criteria are met. These criteria include: a demonstration of sufficient homogeneity of the candidate CRM; circulation, when judged to be appropriate of an established matrix-matched CRM for co-analysis in that round; the robust statistical analysis of data sets using GeoPT established-criteria to decide whether assigning a value is justified (based on a minimum of fifteen valid results);an expert group to manage the certification and the maintenance of appropriate records.In summary, the GeoPT proficiency testing scheme, subject to the arrangements summarised above, is considered to be competent for the certification of geological reference materials