Gwanda State University in partnership with the Zimbabwe School of Mines participated in the 3 rd International Geological Championship, GeoChallenge 2025, held in Bashkortostan, in the Republic of Russia.
The two institutions fiercely competed and exhibited exceptional skill and resilience in an array of geological competitions, including Hydrogeology, Mineralogy, and Geological Route challenges. They secured 4 th position in the Field Camp Organisation, a competition that underscored Zimbabwe’s growing influence in the global geological community and highlight the importance of experiential learning in bridging the theory-practice gap in geology education.
In the Mineralogy and Petrography competitions, they focused on the identification and analysis of minerals and rocks. Participants examined physical and optical properties, classified mineral samples, and detailed rock textures and structures. The competition celebrated the core of geological science understanding Earth’s materials at the macroscopic levels.
In the Radiometry competition, participants engaged in measuring natural radioactivity using specialised instruments, interpreting radiometric data to understand the distribution of radioactive elements in geological samples. This contest demanded sharp analytical skills and a firm grasp of geophysical techniques, reflecting the vital role of radiometry in mineral exploration and environmental studies.
In Paleontology, the challenge involved studying fossil samples to interpret ancient life forms and their environmental context. Competitors identified fossils, understood their significance in Earth’s history, and reconstructed paleoenvironments, showcasing the interplay between life and the geological record.
The team also engaged in the intellectually demanding Oil and Gas competitions along with the Geochemistry competitions. These contests tested participants’ understanding of the fundamental principles and practical applications in energy resource exploration and chemical analysis of geological materials.
Under the Oil and Gas competitions, they focused on subsurface geology, reservoir characterisation, drilling techniques, and the evaluation of hydrocarbon potential. Participants demonstrated their skills in analysing geological formations likely to contain oil and gas, interpreting seismic data, and solving challenges related to extraction and environmental impact.
The team also engaged in rigorous and scientific competitions, focusing on Field Camping, Geological Section, and Crystallography. The Field Camping competition tested the teams’ ability to efficiently organise and manage a geological field camp. Participants demonstrated essential skills such as setting up safe and functional campsites, adhering to safety regulations, managing resources, and maintaining environmental stewardship in remote locations. This competition mirrored real-world conditions, requiring resilience and practical know-how in outdoor geological work.
The Crystallography competition engaged students in identifying crystal structures, symmetry, and properties using both theoretical knowledge and practical examination techniques. Competitors demonstrated proficiency in deciphering the microscopic world of minerals, a fundamental aspect of mineralogy and petrology.
Together, these competitions offered a comprehensive test of the participants’ scientific acumen and practical abilities, upholding the championship’s standard of excellence in earth sciences. Team Zimbabwe was honoured with certificates of participation, recognising their dedication, skill, and exemplary spirit throughout the competition.
The experience was also enriched by academic tours to significant geological sites, such as the Uchally Geology Museum and Uchally Copper Mine, enhancing participants’ understanding of mineralogy and resource extraction.
