UG’s geology students receive practical gold prospecting training

In keeping with the directive of Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, students from the Applied and Exploration Geology Programme at the University of Guyana are receiving specialised practical training in gold prospecting and mineral exploration.

The training forms part of the ongoing Map Reading and Navigation (GPS), QGIS, and Prospecting Short Course and is being facilitated by the Guyana Mining School and Training Centre Inc. (GMSTCI), in collaboration with the Geological Services Division of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC).

University of Guyana students are developing practical knowledge and skills in three key mineral exploration methods:

• Augering and Soil Sampling: Using hand augers to examine subsurface soil profiles and systematically collect and document samples at measured depths.
• Stream Sediment Sampling: Identifying suitable sampling locations, collecting representative creek sediments, concentrating heavy minerals through gold panning, and recognising potential indicators of gold mineralisation.
• Rock Sampling: Identifying rock types and geological structures, collecting representative samples, and accurately documenting field observations.

The training also emphasises GPS data collection, sample labelling, contamination prevention, field safety and adherence to established sampling procedures to ensure the collection of reliable geological information.

Supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), this initiative advances the Minister’s directive to strengthen technical education, expand practical learning opportunities and prepare University of Guyana students for careers in Guyana’s mining and mineral exploration sectors.