University of Benghazi Explores International Research Partnerships and Highlights Libya’s Geological Heritage
President of the University of Benghazi, Professor Eiz Eldeen Aldressi, received Professor Martin Pickford, Honorary Associate at the National Museum of Natural History in Paris, as part of his scientific visit to the university this October. The meeting focused on expanding academic and research links with international scientific institutions.
Expanding International Research Cooperation in Palaeontology
The meeting was attended by Dr Ahmed Saad, Director of the University’s International Cooperation Office; Dr Awad Bilal, Head of the Department of Earth Sciences at the Faculty of Science; and Dr Mohammed Al Riaydh, a faculty member specialising in vertebrate palaeontology. Discussions addressed opportunities for joint research in geology, palaeontology, and palaeoenvironmental studies.
Scientific Importance of Jabal Zaltan and As-Sahabi
Particular attention was given to the scientific importance of Jabal Zaltan—also known in international research as Gebel Zelten—and As-Sahabi, two significant sites for geological and palaeontological research in Libya. Their geological formations and fossil records provide important evidence for studying North Africa’s geological history, ancient environments and faunal evolution. The meeting also highlighted the importance of continued field studies and specialised research, as well as increasing the visibility of Libyan sites in international scientific studies.
Supporting Research into Libya’s Geological and Fossil Heritage
Professor Eiz Eldeen Aldressi emphasised the importance of continuing scientific visits and establishing clear institutional frameworks for future collaboration. Such frameworks would support joint research programmes and projects, the exchange of scientific expertise, and wider opportunities for field training and research for faculty members, researchers, and students.
Professor Pickford expressed his appreciation to the University of Benghazi for the warm welcome and generous hospitality. He praised the research conducted in cooperation with the Department of Earth Sciences. He expressed his support for initiatives that bring together international and Libyan expertise in studying and documenting the country’s geological and fossil heritage.
Professor Pickford also presented the University President with copies of several of his recent publications, adding to the scientific resources available to researchers and students. Among them was a specialised work on the fossils of Jabal Zaltan, prepared in collaboration with Dr Mohammed Al Riaydh of the Department of Earth Sciences. The publication reflects the value of combining international expertise with Libyan scholarship in the study of the country’s fossil record.
The visit reflects the University of Benghazi’s commitment to advancing specialised research, documenting Libya’s natural heritage, and creating wider opportunities for international scientific exchange.
