Closing Remarks of CRIFO 2K25: A Significant International Summit at Roshni Nilaya

Closing Remarks of CRIFO 2K25: A Significant International Summit at Roshni Nilaya

Mangaluru: The second day of the CRIFO 2K25 International Summit, themed “Forensic Spectrum: An Intersection of Technology and Crime Investigation,” culminated in a series of enlightening sessions and a valedictory ceremony that underscored the pressing need for advancements in forensic science amid the evolving demands of law enforcement. Hosted by the Post Graduate Department of Criminology and Forensic Science and the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of the School of Social Work (Autonomous) at Roshni Nilaya, this summit witnessed vibrant collaborations with expert institutions such as TConnects, Getjobs, and Skills in Security and Investigations, Virtual Protect Security Pvt. Ltd., and Covert Security India Consulting Services LLP from Bengaluru.

The day commenced with an engaging quiz grand finale and a paper presentation session that allowed scholars and practitioners to share innovative insights into contemporary issues in forensic science. Following these activities, the fourth technical session featured eminent speakers from the field, including Mr. Sai Krishna Domala, Managing Director of Virtual Protect Security, and Mr. Thejas Abhishek, Team Lead of Security Operations at the same firm. Mr. Domala introduced an innovative “Risk Jobs Portal,” aiming to bridge the gap between student skill development and job placement in the burgeoning security industry. This initiative emphasizes training programs, internships, and significant resume-building strategies for aspiring professionals. In addition, Mr. Thejas Abhishek showcased a state-of-the-art vehicle tracking and monitoring system that employs GPS technology, geo-fencing, and emergency response features to enhance risk management protocols in fleet security.

The final event of the day before the valedictory ceremony was a high-stakes stress interview, which was aptly designed to help participants cultivate resilience and adaptability—key skills valued in the rigorous field of crime investigation.

During the valedictory ceremony, Chief Guest Assoc. Prof. Vineetha K., former Registrar (Evaluation) and Head of the UG Department of Social Work at the School of Social Work articulated the significance of the summit in broadening the forensic knowledge base within the legal system. She expressed her gratitude towards the organizing team for their meticulous planning and execution of the summit, thereby facilitating an international dialogue on critical forensic issues. Furthermore, she conveyed her appreciation to the delegates and honored guests present, inspiring students to hold on to their aspirations and ambitions as they navigate their academic journeys.

The presiding officer, Dr. Jacinta D’Souza, a former principal of the School of Social Work, acknowledged the considerable contributions of the event’s collaborators and the invaluable insights shared during the sessions. She extended her heartfelt thanks to the organizing committee, speakers, attendees, and delegates for their role in making the summit a resounding success. Dr. D’Souza also congratulated all prize winners while honoring the legacy of the late Dr. Ashoka B, the former head of the MSc in Criminology and Forensic Science program.

Among the distinguished guests was Mr. Somashankar N, Police Inspector and Fingerprint Expert from the Mangaluru City Police’s Fingerprint Unit, as well as Dr. Rosa Nimmy Mathew, IQAC Co-Coordinator and Head of MSc Counselling. The event also recognized the collaborative efforts of Program Partner Mr. Pradeep Loyed Martis, Security Operations Manager at Virtual Protect Security Pvt. Ltd., alongside student coordinator Ms. Feba Shamma R, Organizing Secretary Mr. Roshan D’Souza, and Organizing Joint Secretary Ms. Nashwa Iqbal. The presence of teaching and non-teaching staff, as well as students from various institutions across the region, further enriched the event’s collective dialogue.

Mr. Niketh P. S., Assistant Professor of the MSc in Criminology and Forensic Science program and Faculty Convener of CRIFO 2K25 had the honour of distributing prizes to the winners of various competitive events, culminating in SBRR Mahajana First Grade College from Mysuru being awarded the overall championship trophy. The summit concluded with a short video presentation that provided a reflective glimpse of the two days of collaborative learning and networking.

The day’s proceedings were initiated by a welcome address delivered by Asst. Prof. Gayathri K. S., while Student Coordinator Ms. Vedhaashini S. Gowda adeptly managed the program as the event’s anchor. Dr. Saritha D’Souza, Head of the Post Graduate Department of Criminology and Forensic Science and IQAC Coordinator, delivered an eloquent vote of thanks, articulating appreciation to everyone who made the summit a remarkable success. Coverage of the entire event was meticulously compiled by Ms. Adheena M., Media Coordinator of the Department, further reflecting the extensive involvement of the institution in ensuring a fruitful discussion on the intersection of technology and crime investigation.

Altogether, CRIFO 2K25 gathered approximately 150 delegates, facilitating insightful exchanges that promise to advance the academic and practical realms of forensic science and crime investigation in the years to come.