The Department of Anthropology & Archaeology, University of Sindh, Jamshoro, in collaboration with the Department of Geography, organised an interactive, hands-on workshop titled “Mapmaking and Cartographic Essentials” at the Department of Geography. The workshop was conducted as part of the Anthropology of South Asia course to equip students with practical cartographic skills essential for anthropological and archaeological fieldwork.
Recognising the importance of mapmaking in research, the workshop was attended not only by students enrolled in the course but also by enthusiastic first-year and third-year students who joined the session to gain practical experience through hands-on exercises.
The workshop was facilitated by Mr. Ali Anwer Chandio, Teaching Assistant in the Department of Geography, who provided practical training in the preparation of South Asian regional maps. Students were introduced to fundamental cartographic concepts and gained hands-on experience in tracing and pantograph methods for accurate map reproduction, enlargement and reduction, along with other essential mapping techniques.
The participants were led by Dr. Abdul Razaque Channa, In-charge Chairman, Department of Anthropology and Archaeology, accompanied by Teaching Assistants Ms. Quratullain, Ms. Anila Paras and Mr. Abid Mahar. They were warmly received by Dr. Sujo Mal, Chairman, Department of Geography, along with his faculty members.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Abdul Razaque Channa emphasised that mapmaking is a fundamental skill for both anthropologists and archaeologists, enabling researchers to accurately document landscapes, settlements, cultural sites and field observations. He noted that every field researcher should possess basic cartographic skills, as maps are not merely geographical representations but powerful analytical tools for understanding people, culture, heritage and the environment. He further highlighted that practical, interdisciplinary learning strengthens students’ professional competencies and prepares them for real-world research.
During the workshop, Dr. Sujo Mal demonstrated how to draw a world map and explained the fundamental principles of cartography. He discussed the definition and purpose of maps, the concepts of latitude and longitude, hemispheres, cardinal directions, the Prime Meridian at Greenwich, time zones, map orientation and the central reference points used in mapping. He encouraged students to appreciate maps as an indispensable scientific tool for geographical, anthropological and archaeological investigations.
At the conclusion of the workshop, Dr. Abdul Razaque Channa thanked Dr. Sujo Mal for his cooperation and support in organising the workshop and expressed special appreciation to Mr. Ali Anwer Chandio for his excellent facilitation and practical demonstration of mapmaking techniques. He underscored the importance of collaboration between departments and highlighted that multidisciplinary partnerships provide students with richer learning experiences and broader professional perspectives.
The workshop concluded with an interactive discussion, practical exercises and a group photograph of the participants and faculty members.