Zigong UNESCO Global Geopark Kicks off Geological Education Campaign on Campus: Successful in Four Universities

In March 2023, the 'Adventures with Dinosaurs in Zigong — Science Popularisation by Zigong UNESCO Global Geopark on Campus' sponsored by the Administrator Center of Zigong UNESCO Global Geopark and undertaken by the Geoparker's Nature Science Popularisation Center was officially launched. This event called upon teachers and volunteers nationwide with expertise in geology, palaeontology, fauna and flora, environmental conservation, historical studies and science popularisation outreach. These participants travelled to 20 educational institutions across China, where they engaged with students ranging from primary through high school levels, as well as college undergraduates. The event delivered insights into the Zigong UNESCO Global Geopark, provided information about dinosaur fossil discoveries, explored the history of well salt production, delved into the culture of colourful lantern, and discussed the importance of biodiversity research and preservation efforts.

▲Event poster

From 22 to 26 March, Zigong UNESCO Global Geopark conducted popular science lectures at Sichuan University of Science & Engineering, Chengdu University of Technology, Sichuan University, and Neijiang Normal University. More than 600 teachers and students attended the lectures.

On 22, 24, and 25 March, the Zigong UNESCO Global Geopark hosted a series of popular science lectures by Dr. Qiu Rui from the Beijing Museum of Natural History, entitled 'Into the Dinosaur World'. These lectures were attended by students from the Sichuan University of Science & Engineering, Chengdu University of Technology, and Sichuan University. Dr. Qiu adeptly communicated complex research findings in a way that was accessible and entertaining, covering topics such as the history of discovering dinosaur fossils worldwide, the importance of discoveries in Zigong, dinosaur definition, taxonomy, characteristics of iconic dinosaur species, how dinosaur fossils are formed, and the techniques for unearthing and restoring fossils. On 26 March, Dr. Chen Bin from Neijiang Normal University's School of Geography & Resource Science provided students of the same university with insights into the UNESCO Global Geopark concept. He discussed the purpose and value of creating such global geoparks, Zigong's salt industry heritage, local colourful lantern culture, and the region's rich biodiversity. Dr. Chen also emphasised important facts related to Zigong's dinosaur heritage.

▲ 22 March, lecture scene at Sichuan University of Science & Engineering

▲24 March, lecture scene at Chengdu University of Technology

▲ 25 March, lecture scene at Sichuan University

▲ 26 March, lecture scene at Neijiang Normal University

The two lecturers are well-versed in their fields, employing dynamic and engaging teaching techniques. The students are greatly engaged with the lecture content, eagerly participating in discussions and seeking guidance from the lecturers, as well as actively engaging in the competitive quiz section of the lectures. In the quiz competitions across four lectures, over 80 cultural and creative gifts, including exquisite popular science books, portable fabric tote bags, and notebooks, were handed out as prizes.

▲Group photo of award-winning students and teachers from Sichuan University of Science & Engineering

▲Group photo of award-winning students and teachers from Chengdu University of Technology

At the same time, science popularisation exhibitions of Zigong UNESCO Global Geopark were set up in high-traffic areas across the campus, like squares and dining hall entrances, showcasing geological sites, cultural heritage, and the variety of life. Volunteers handed out brochures and flyers about the event to both faculty and students, promoting the initiative and providing answers to inquiries. During the span of the four events, over 600 pieces of publicity materials were handed out.

▲ Popular science exhibition of Zigong UNESCO Global Geopark

▲ Volunteers from Sichuan University of Science & Engineering distribute publicity materials for the activity and accept consultation

▲ Volunteers from Neijiang Normal University distribute publicity materials for the activity and accept consultation

Until now, the Zigong UNESCO Global Geopark has hosted four well-received popular science lectures within Sichuan Province, known as 'Adventures with Dinosaurs in Zigong — Science Popularisation by Zigong UNESCO Global Geopark on Campus'. Moving forward, the Geopark plans to conduct educational lectures on natural science topics, including geoparks and dinosaur fossils, at 16 educational institutions outside the province. These lectures aim to spread this knowledge among primary, middle, and high school students and undergraduates throughout China.

Recognized as a global geopark by UNESCO in 2008, Zigong UNESCO Global Geopark has dedicated itself to promoting scientific popularisation. The Geopark continually seeks new and creative ways to enhance and broaden its educational outreach, aiming to inform more individuals about itself. This includes increasing awareness of the Geopark's resources and value, understanding preservation techniques and their importance, and imparting broader scientific knowledge, ultimately striving to foster a widespread appreciation and understanding of science among the general public.