This initiative by JusGov, in partnership with the AECrimUM (the Criminology Students’ Association of the University of Minho) and with the joint collaboration and support of the Planetarium – Braga Science House (Braga Ciência Viva Centre), presents an interactive simulation of a simple homicide case, offering practical application of concepts from criminology, forensic sciences, and the fundamental principles of criminal procedure, with a special acknowledgement of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) in the year of its 75th anniversary.

The activity, designed for lower secondary school pupils, aims to spark the curiosity of these young “field researchers” as they move through different areas of the Braga Planetarium, guided by criminology student monitors. Through examining the crime scene, collecting evidence, understanding the basic structure of criminal procedure, and learning about the roles of the Public Prosecutor’s Office, the Judicial Police and the Examining Judge—as well as the contribution of criminology and the fundamental principles of the ECHR—participants will be expected to present their justified report and conclusions.

In this fictional crime, there will also be a symbolic investigation kit to allow participants to immerse themselves in the science of criminal investigation in the service of justice. Science against crime!