Training to bridge gap between ancient knowledge and contemporary science

SHILLONG, March 15: In a bid to bridge the gap between ancient knowledge and contemporary science for nurturing effective community and science-based solutions, a three-day training programme was organised for the indigenous community members of Syrwet U Barim Mariang Jingkieng Jri Cooperative Federation Ltd.
Organised by the Geological Survey of India Training Institute (GSITI), the training underlines the Role of Geological Sciences and Traditional Knowledge in the conservation, management and development of Jingkieng Jri: Living Root Bridge Cultural Landscapes of Meghalaya.
“The training is an effort to bridge the gap between ancient knowledge and contemporary science for nurturing effective community and science-based solutions. It brings experienced scientists, mainly geologists and indigenous knowledge-holders together to facilitate knowledge sharing and sustainable capacity building for an education-based participatory approach towards conserving Jingkieng Jri sites, landscapes, villages and watersheds,” a statement in this regard said.
The training also explores a balance between formal and informal learning methods through immersive field studies, introduction to advances in the field of geology, open dialogues and museum visits related to Geoheritage, Geotourism, and Geohazards. “This hybrid approach will connect both knowledge domains and hopefully build up a foundation for future community and science-based documentation, research and management of Jingkieng Jri sites,” the statement added.
On the first day, the proceedings involved an inaugural session, which combined introductory comments from representatives of GSITI, Community-Led Landscape Management Project and Syrwet U Barim Mariang Jingkieng Jri Cooperative Federation Ltd.
Subsequent sessions involved presentations on Geoheritage, Geotourism, Geotrails, visit-cum-live demonstrations in GSI Museum for understanding geological evolution of Meghalaya through rocks.
There also was an interactive discussion on the petrology laboratory.
A session highlighting the importance of everyone working together for authentic conservation and responsible development of Jingkieng Jri complemented the day’s proceedings.
It may be mentioned that on the second day, the training will focus on vulnerability assessment of Jingkieng Jri, introduction to mapping techniques and visit to geotechnical laboratory.
On the final day, the training will include fieldwork related to geological studies and conservation using appropriate protective measures.