The Ministry of Home Affairs of Guyana has signed a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with India’s National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU), marking a pivotal step in transforming forensic science, cybersecurity, and criminal justice capabilities in Guyana and the Caribbean.

The MoU, signed on Friday, brings together the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the Guyana Forensic Science Laboratory (GFSL), and NFSU in a strategic partnership to enhance law enforcement expertise and crime prevention methodologies.

The signing ceremony, held virtually, featured high-ranking officials from both nations, including Guyana’s Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, and India’s High Commissioner to Guyana, H.E. Dr. Amit Telang. The agreement was signed by Mr. Andre Ally, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs, and Commissioner of Police Mr. Clifton Hicken on behalf of Guyana, while Dr. J. M. Vyas, Vice Chancellor of NFSU, represented India.

SHARED VISION FOR SECURITY EXCELLENCE
Minister Benn emphasized the importance of the partnership, highlighting its roots in discussions between President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “This MoU represents a significant step forward in enhancing Guyana’s forensic capabilities and law enforcement expertise,” he stated.

He noted recent advancements in Guyana’s forensic infrastructure, including the acquisition of a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and other advanced equipment, as evidence of the country’s commitment to proactive crime prevention.

Dr. J. M. Vyas underscored NFSU’s global role in advancing forensic science. “As the only university dedicated exclusively to forensic and allied sciences, we are proud to extend our expertise to Guyana,” he said. Dr. Vyas also highlighted the potential for Guyana to become a regional hub for forensic and investigative training.

The Memorandum of Understanding outlines several transformative objectives, including the establishment of an internationally accredited forensic science laboratory in Guyana to perform advanced analyses for local and regional needs. It also aims to provide specialized training and certification programs for Guyana Police Force officers in forensic science, cybersecurity, and investigative techniques, while developing collaborative educational curricula in forensic psychology, cybersecurity, and investigative methodologies. Additionally, the agreement seeks to position Guyana as a regional hub for law enforcement training across the Caribbean and promote joint research initiatives in forensic science and cybersecurity to address contemporary law enforcement challenges.

H.E. Dr. Amit Telang highlighted the broader implications of the partnership. “This MoU is a testament to the enduring ties between India and Guyana, reflecting our shared commitment to progress and mutual support,” he remarked.

REGIONAL BEACON FOR FORENSIC TRAINING
The MoU positions Guyana as a leader in forensic and investigative sciences, with plans to establish a regional training hub. This initiative will enable knowledge-sharing and capacity-building among Caribbean law enforcement agencies, equipping them to tackle evolving security threats.
Dr. Vyas revealed plans for an NFSU campus in Guyana, where students and professionals from across the Caribbean can receive training tailored to the region’s unique security challenges.

Both parties are committed to swiftly operationalizing the MoU’s objectives. Delegations from Guyana will visit NFSU in India to explore facilities and discuss customized solutions for the Caribbean’s security landscape.

Minister Benn concluded, “This partnership is a milestone in Guyana’s journey to becoming a leader in forensic and investigative sciences. Together, we are building a safer and more secure future for our citizens and the region.”

This collaboration promises to not only elevate Guyana’s forensic capabilities but also strengthen its role as a regional leader in addressing sophisticated criminal activities and modern security challenges.