The Department of Geology and Petroleum organized a scientific workshop entitled “Mass Extinction Events Throughout Geological Ages” from April 26–30, 2026, as part of its continuing education activities.

The workshop addressed the series of mass extinction events that have occurred throughout Earth’s history and profoundly altered the course of life’s evolution. These events were associated with major climatic and geological changes, as well as large-scale natural catastrophes.

The workshop highlighted the most significant extinction events, including the Ordovician–Silurian Extinction approximately 444 million years ago, the Late Devonian Extinction around 375 million years ago, the Permian–Triassic Extinction about 252 million years ago, the Triassic–Jurassic Extinction approximately 201 million years ago, and the Cretaceous–Paleogene Extinction around 66 million years ago, which led to the disappearance of non-avian dinosaurs as a result of an asteroid impact in the Yucatán Peninsula and extensive volcanic activity in India.

The workshop concluded that studying these events through the science of paleontology provides valuable insights into the effects of severe environmental changes and is directly linked to the concept of sustainable development. By analyzing the causes of past extinction events, effective strategies can be developed to preserve ecosystems and mitigate the negative impacts of human activities.

The workshop was presented by:

• Assist. Prof. Dr. Maha Abdulhameed Mustafa
• Lecturer Dr. Rana Abdulilah Mahmoud
• Lecturer Dr. Sand Abdulilah Al-Khashab

The event was attended by a distinguished group of faculty members from the department and individuals interested in geological sciences.

We wish everyone continued success and sustained scientific contributions that serve society and strengthen the university’s research mission.

Media and Government Communication Division

Monday, May 4, 2026