Master in Bioenvironmental Systems Engineering
Our course began at WFA, where we learned about wildlife forensics and crime scene investigation. Petro van der Westhuizen emphasized that forensic investigations require more than simply walking around a scene. We learned how to divide a crime scene into search areas and use systematic search patterns instead of searching randomly. Later, Phil guided us through a realistic mock courtroom exercise. He reminded us that if we did not know the answer to a question, it was better to honestly say, "I don't know," rather than guess. The courtroom simulation felt like a large escape room that had been carefully designed, and it helped us understand how evidence collected in the field is presented in court. This journey gave me far more than professional knowledge. It broadened my perspective, strengthened my passion for wildlife conservation, and created memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life.
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