Amid plans to establish a nuclear forensic and crime scene management laboratory at the North-West University (NWU), a senior member of the Centre for Applied Radiation Science and Technology (CARST) in Mahikeng has undergone specialist training in Karlsruhe, Germany.

Dr Tebogo Gilbert Kupi, who leads the university’s nuclear forensics initiatives, took part in the International Training Course on Nuclear Forensic Methodologies from 14 to 25 October 2024.

The course was hosted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in collaboration with the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) and the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission. It aimed to enhance knowledge in nuclear forensic science through presentations and hands-on exercises.

Nuclear forensics entails examining nuclear and other radioactive materials to determine their origins and history. Investigators can then respond to the unauthorised use of such materials and assist states to make informed decisions about their nuclear security practices.

Dealing with radiological crime scenes

Participants on the international programme received training on managing radiological crime scenes, handling nuclear and conventional forensic evidence, and preventing contamination during forensic processes. The programme also covered the development of analytical plans, techniques for radionuclide identification, gamma spectrometry and legal considerations in nuclear forensics.

Dr Kupi says the training aligns with the university’s plans to establish a nuclear forensic and crime scene management laboratory at CARST. The knowledge gained would strengthen the NWU’s capacity in nuclear security and radiological crime scene management.

“This training forms part of the partnership between the NWU and the IAEA to train students in nuclear forensic science, with the goal of linking radiological crime scenes to the nuclear forensics laboratory,” says Dr Kupi.

The proposed facility will support research, training and investigations in nuclear forensics.

This initiative reflects the NWU’s commitment to advancing research and fostering collaborations to address critical global issues.

Dr Tebogo Gilbert Kupi took part in the International Training Course on Nuclear Forensic Methodologies from 14 to 25 October 2024