Friends from countries in BRI explore fossils at YNU

An activity called Fossil Witness Evolution of Life on Earth – part of the eighth Belt and Road Initiative Teenager Maker Camp and Teacher Workshop – took place on July 24-25 at Yunnan University or YNU, located in Kunming, capital of Southwest China's Yunnan province.

Over 80 teachers and students from India, South Africa, Thailand, Romania, Tunisia, Nepal, Mongolia, Kuwait, Cambodia, Laos and Hong Kong participated.

The activity focused on examining the paleontological fossils of Yunnan, using fossil records as a starting point to understand the process of life and evolution.

Participants closely examine fossils in Yunnan. [Photo/ynu.edu.cn]

During the activity, participants handled research equipment and paleontological fossil exhibits at the Yunnan Key Laboratory for Paleontology at YNU.

They examined its collection of fossil specimens, experienced the daily work of paleontologists and talked with paleontology research experts about the classifications and evolutionary status of the collected specimens.

Through the activity, the visitors gained an understanding of the distribution of important fossil resources in Yunnan and their corresponding scientific value, the Cambrian period and exceptional fossil assemblages like the Chengjiang biota.

During the event, participants also visited places such as the Yunnan University Library and the University History Museum.

Overall, it reportedly inspired the interest of the participants in paleontology and exploration, helping to promote their overall development.