Curtin Malaysia brings geology to life for Miri students at annual Geology Day

Miri, Sarawak – 18 October 2025 – The Earth came alive at Curtin University Malaysia’s annual Geology Day, where over 55 students and teachers from three Miri secondary schools were immersed in the dynamic world of geosciences through a day of hands-on learning, live demonstrations, and inspiring lectures.

Hosted by the Applied Geology Department of Curtin Malaysia’s Faculty of Engineering and Science, the event welcomed participants from SMK Chung Hua, SMK Pujut, and SMK Lutong, turning the campus into an interactive geology classroom.

Coordinated by Associate Lecturer Fiona Bassy William, with full support from the department’s academic staff and the enthusiastic Curtin Geology Club, the initiative aimed to ignite curiosity about Earth sciences and introduce students to potential careers in the geosciences.

Professor M.V Prasanna, Head of the Applied Geology Department, opened the day with an inspiring overview of Curtin’s Applied Geology programme and the global opportunities it offers.

“We want students to see that geology is not just about rocks; it is about understanding the various geological processes that shape our planet and our future,” said Professor Prasanna.

Adding to the excitement was a captivating lecture by Associate Professor Dominique Dodge-Wan, Programme Coordinator for the Bachelor of Applied Geology, who guided the students through an ‘Introduction to Geology’ and uncovered the awe-inspiring world of ‘Caves, Crystals, Caverns and Complexity’.

The students rotated through a series of lab-based activities that brought complex geological processes to life. In the Geology Lab, a volcano model simulated explosive eruptions, while a sandbox model demonstrated tectonic movements, helping the students visualise the formation of faults and folds. A transparent tank showed how groundwater flows beneath Earth’s surface, laying the foundation for understanding hydrogeology.

In the Mineralogy Lab, the students used polarising microscopes to examine mineral samples in thin sections, gaining insight into the composition and beauty of Earth materials. They even handled real fossils, sparking discussions about the origins and evolution of life on Earth.

To make learning fun and memorable, the day wrapped up with a series of geology-themed games and quizzes, from rock-matching puzzles and dinosaur challenges to crafting crystallographic models out of paper.

Throughout the day, participants were mentored by undergraduate students of the Curtin Geology Club, who offered valuable insights into university life and shared their passion for geoscience.

Geology Day continues to be one of Curtin Malaysia’s standout outreach events, showcasing not just the vital role geology plays in society, but also the exciting academic and professional pathways available through geoscience education.

“This event is about planting seeds of curiosity,” said Associate Lecturer Fiona Bassy William. “We hope some of these students will one day walk through these halls again – not as visitors, but as future geologists.”

For more information on Curtin Malaysia, visit curtin.edu.my or look for Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, or TikTok.

Students from SMK Pujut with Curtin lecturers.

SMK Lutong students in a group photo with academic staff.

SMK Chung Hua students posing with the faculty team.

Prof. M.V Prasanna presenting Curtin’s Applied Geology programme.

Associate Prof. Dominique Dodge-Wan sharing ‘Caves, Crystals, Caverns and Complexity’.

Students engaged in geology-themed puzzle games.

Students gaining a better understanding of volcanic eruptions through a model volcano.