KU VC inaugurates Centre for Digital Forensic Science and Technology building

Vice Chancellor University of Karachi Professor Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi on Monday inaugurated the newly constructed state-of-the-art Centre for Digital Forensic Science and Technology (CDFST) building.

On this occasion, Director of Planning and Development Saeed Sheikh shared that the newly constructed building comprises a ground-plus-two structure, covering a total area of 38,000 square feet. The project cost amounted to Rs308 million.

He observed that the CDFST, the first of its kind in the province, will mark a significant milestone in promoting awareness, advancing research, and delivering hands-on training in digital security and cybercrime prevention.

He said that the funded agency of the project was the Planning Commission, through the Higher Education Commission Islamabad, and the executing agency was KU through the Planning and Development Department. He mentioned that the civil work was started in August 2022 and completed in August 2025.

The facility includes 32 modern offices, 23 classrooms, 11 labs including six academic laboratories and five high-end research and testing labs, 18 storage rooms, and 10 advanced security cameras. Additionally, two dedicated ramps have been built to accommodate individuals with disabilities along with two separate entrances. “Today, we are handing over the CDFST building to the university, and soon people will see academic and research activities in the centre.”

VC Prof Dr Khalid Mahmood Iraqi shared that certificate and diploma courses will soon be launched at the centre to provide advanced training in digital forensics and technology to students, researchers, and law enforcement agencies. He further revealed that BS, MPhil, and PhD programs will also be introduced at the CDFST in the near future.

He emphasized that the centre will offer a unique blend of cutting-edge research, technology, and hands-on training, equipping students with globally competitive skills and opening new avenues in digital security, forensic science, and artificial intelligence within Pakistan.

He noted that various departments of the University of Karachi, including Computer Science, Criminology, Mass Communication, Psychology, the Institute of Clinical Psychology, Genetics, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, will collaborate closely with the CDFST.

He said the CDFST will provide specialized training in investigating and preventing digital crimes, with a focus on mobile fraud, computer, laptop, mobile devices, and network forensics, cybercrime investigation, forensic data analysis, and practical applications of artificial intelligence.

He expressed confidence that the centre will emerge as a regional hub for research and training in digital forensics, contributing not only to academic and research advancement but also playing a vital role in meeting the national security needs of Pakistan. He mentioned that the CDFST would also engage with the law enforcement agencies and would assist them as and when required.