Geopark Merangin Jambi as an Open Air Natural Laboratory UNIHAZ Bengkulu Geography Students Hold Field Study Exploring Earth Heritage

MERANGIN – The landscape of Merangin Jambi UNESCO Global Geopark once again proved its capacity as an outstanding educational center and open-air geological laboratory. Over four days, from 20 to 23 June 2026, this area witnessed the enthusiasm of students from the Geography Education Study Program of Universitas Prof. Dr. Hazairin, SH (UNIHAZ) Bengkulu, who were carrying out their Field Study (Kuliah Kerja Lapangan/KKL).

This academic visit was specifically designed to invite future geography educators to directly examine the geological wonders, biodiversity, and cultural diversity that form the main pillars of preservation in Merangin. Through this field study, students were encouraged to step beyond the boundaries of the classroom and bridge academic theory with the real conditions of the landscape.

Exploring Four Exotic, Education-Based Sites

During the observation period, the UNIHAZ Bengkulu field study group was guided along an exploration route rich in scientific value. The journey was divided into several featured geosites and cultural sites, including:

1. Rantau Kermas Customary Forest

At this first location, students directly examined how the local wisdom of the customary community plays a crucial role in forest ecosystem conservation efforts. Students learned that sustainable environmental stewardship is inseparable from the customary law and traditions passed down through generations.

2. Lake Pauh & Farenza Garden

Moving to the next location, the field study participants analyzed the charm of a landscape shaped by past volcanic activity. Here, the education focused on how land use and natural beauty can be harmoniously combined with the potential for sustainable tourism and agrotourism that drives the local community's economy.

3. Sigerincing & Serintik Hujan Paneh Waterfalls

Scientifically, this exotic waterfall area, which cuts through Merangin's ancient rock formations, became an ideal location for students to directly study geomorphological and hydrological processes. The natural phenomena at this geosite serve as a real, visual geography textbook on the formation of river landscapes and rock structures.

4. Muara Karing Leaf Fossils

As the highlight of the exploration, the group was invited to directly observe traces of the Jambi Flora at Muara Karing. This world geological heritage site, which holds fossils hundreds of millions of years old, offered students an unforgettable, hands-on experience in understanding the long history of Earth's evolution — a source of pride for Jambi on the world stage.

More Than Just an Ordinary Tourist Destination

This field study, organized by UNIHAZ Bengkulu, further reinforces the position of Geopark Merangin Jambi as more than just a recreational tourism destination — it stands as a vital epicenter of earth science education.

The presence of these academics was warmly welcomed by the management and local community. It is hoped that the knowledge and hands-on experience gained during their time in Merangin will help produce innovative, environmentally conscious geography teachers who will also serve as agents in spreading awareness of the importance of preserving Earth's geological heritage for the future.