PNAC grants ISO 17025 accreditation to ICCBS Karachi University’s Forensic DNA Lab
KARACHI: The Pakistan National Accreditation Council (PNAC) has granted renewed and expanded accreditation to the Sindh Forensic DNA and Serology Laboratory (SFDL), located within the Dr Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research (PCMD) at the International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), University of Karachi. This prestigious recognition certifies the lab’s compliance with ISO/IEC 17025:2017, the international benchmark for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories.
SFDL is the only forensic facility in Pakistan to have received accreditation under ISO 17025, solidifying its position as a leader in forensic science and scientific excellence in the country.
A milestone for forensic science in Pakistan
The official meeting, held at the Dr. Panjwani Center, was chaired by Prof. Dr. Raza Shah, Director of ICCBS, and attended by several prominent figures, including Dr. Ishtiaq Ahmad Khan, Project Director and Head of SFDL. During the meeting, it was noted that the lab’s renewed accreditation followed a rigorous independent assessment, ensuring its state-of-the-art infrastructure and highly skilled personnel continue to meet the highest operational standards.
The role of SFDL in criminal investigations and forensic education
The Sindh Forensic DNA and Serology Laboratory has become a cornerstone of forensic infrastructure in Pakistan. Since its establishment, SFDL has been at the forefront of forensic investigations, having contributed to over 8,800 criminal cases. The lab’s work extends beyond forensic reporting, also playing an essential role in training judges, prosecutors, medico-legal experts, and investigators in evidence handling and collection procedures.
Prof. Dr. M. Raza Shah, Director of ICCBS, highlighted the transformative role of Dr. Ishtiaq Ahmad Khan, whose efforts have turned SFDL into a nationally significant forensic hub in just a few years. Under his leadership, the lab has become a beacon of capacity building and knowledge transfer in forensic science.
Key achievements of SFDL:
- ISO 17025 accreditation: SFDL remains the only forensic facility in Pakistan to meet the rigorous ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standards.
- Contribution to over 8,800 cases: The lab’s analysis has been pivotal in criminal investigations across the country.
- Training hub for forensic professionals: SFDL regularly trains investigating officers, judges, and crime scene investigators to enhance the nation’s forensic capacity.
- Vital role in high-profile investigations: SFDL has played a critical role in disaster response and high-profile criminal cases, contributing to justice and national security.
Celebrating excellence and leadership in forensics
The renewed accreditation is a testament to the vision and leadership of Prof. Dr. Raza Shah and Dr. Ishtiaq Ahmad Khan. Prof. Dr. Khalid Iraqi, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Karachi, and Prof. Dr. Atta-ur-Rahman, former Federal Minister for Science and Technology, congratulated the SFDL team on this momentous achievement. Their leadership has propelled SFDL to the forefront of forensic science in Pakistan, positioning it as a leading forensic hub in South Asia.
Looking ahead: Future of forensic science in Pakistan
As forensic DNA analysis and serology testing continue to evolve globally, the Sindh Forensic DNA and Serology Laboratory is committed to staying at the cutting edge of forensic science. With plans for further expansion, SFDL aims to continue offering state-of-the-art testing and training for the next generation of forensic professionals.
By maintaining ISO 17025 accreditation, SFDL ensures that its forensic services remain reliable, scientifically sound, and aligned with international standards, further cementing Pakistan’s position as a leader in the global forensic community.