2025-02-20
In early February, the Egypt-Japan University of Science and Technology (E-JUST) organized two interactive workshops as part of its participation in the Child University Program under the theme "The Journey of Artifacts from Excavation to Museum Display." The workshops provided children with a hands-on experience in archaeology and artifact restoration. The sessions were conducted by a team from the Heritage Science Program at E-JUST, including Prof. Gomaa Abdel-Maksoud and Prof. Takao Kikunushi, along with experts from the Grand Egyptian Museum, namely Dr. Marwa Mohamed Karam, Ms. Iman Mohamed Abou El-Hassan, and Ms. Asmaa El-Shafie Ali. They supervised the children's training across various stages of artifact handling, from excavation to museum display. The workshop began with a simulated archaeological excavation, where a model excavation site was set up, divided into grid squares, and filled with artificial artifacts buried in sand. The children practiced excavating, recording findings scientifically, and describing artifacts as part of the documentation process. Additionally, the workshop introduced children to first-aid procedures for artifacts upon excavation, categorizing them based on material type. A hands-on artifact restoration session allowed children to work with replicas of animal bones and pottery fragments that simulated real-life damage. They learned cleaning, reinforcement, and reassembly techniques, as well as artifact documentation before, during, and after restoration. The workshop concluded with a museum display training, where children learned how to showcase restored artifacts. Participants were divided into teams, and at the end of the session, each group presented their work, showcasing the entire process from excavation to restoration and final exhibition. E-JUST provided all the necessary tools and materials to ensure a comprehensive learning experience. The interactive approach was highly appreciated by the children, who expressed excitement and shared their enthusiasm with their families. The positive atmosphere during the final day of the Child University Program reflected the success of the initiative. Through this program, E-JUST reaffirms its commitment to promoting cultural and archaeological awareness and supporting younger generations in the fields of heritage science and restoration.
