The Department of Geology, Government Degree College (GDC) Drass, organised a one-day educational field tour to Akchamal and Sankoo on November 11 for Semester 1 and Semester 3 students.

The tour aimed to provide students with first-hand field exposure and strengthen their understanding of geological concepts through practical observation and field-based learning.

During the visit, students explored various geological features and formations of the region, with particular emphasis on field geology, rock identification and classification, petrological characteristics, and geological structures. They were also given practical demonstrations on identifying and measuring the dip and strike of rock beds, understanding their orientation and interpreting structural features in their natural settings.

The field tour provided students with an opportunity to connect theoretical knowledge gained in the classroom with actual field observations. They examined rock exposures, observed variations in lithology and learned about the significance of geological structures and basic techniques of geological field investigation.

Dr Shoaib Maqbool and Husnain supervised the tour and provided academic guidance, engaging students in field demonstrations, explaining the geological significance of the selected locations, and guiding them in understanding various geological and petrological characteristics.

The Department of Geology expressed gratitude to the College Principal, Nasir Shabani, for his continuous encouragement, support and cooperation in facilitating the academic initiative. It appreciated his commitment to promoting experiential learning and student-oriented educational activities.

The department emphasised that field tours are an integral part of geological education, providing students with opportunities to develop scientific temperament, observational skills, analytical thinking and practical competencies.

It also reaffirmed its commitment to organising similar academic and field-based activities to enrich students' learning experiences and strengthen their understanding of geological sciences.