The Mining Engineering program at the Faculty of Geosciences Engineering (FICT) hosted an enriching co-teaching session. On this occasion, students benefited from the keynote participation of Fernando Morante, Ph.D., Director of the Center for Research and Projects Applied to Earth Sciences (CIPAT), who shared his extensive expertise in the study of non-metallic minerals.
Geology and Applications: The Potential of the Chongón–Colonche Range
The keynote lecture, titled "Natural Zeolite Deposits of the Chongón–Colonche Range (Guayas–Manabí): Geology and Applications," allowed future engineers to grasp the strategic importance of these resources within the national context.
During the session, critical points for professional practice were analyzed, such as:
Historical Context: Background on the discovery of zeolitic rock deposits in Ecuador.
Technical Properties: Definition, physicochemical, and mineralogical characteristics of zeolites.
Prospection and Mining: Analysis of formation environments, associated lithotects, and the most effective methods for selective mining and utilization.
Strengthening Technical Judgment through Co-Teaching
This learning modality allows students to not only master theory but also connect with the reality of the Ecuadorian mining sector. By integrating the vision of an expert researcher, the program promotes advanced technical analysis and strengthens academic training with up-to-date field data.
"Direct exchange with experts enables our students to develop a critical and practical vision, essential for leading a responsible mining industry in the future."
Commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
This activity reaffirms the commitment of FICT-ESPOL to the global agenda, aligning with the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
SDG 4: Quality Education
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
SDG 15: Life on Land
