Colegio Concepción welcomed Dr Osvaldo Ulloa, one of Chile’s most recognised oceanographers, for a special masterclass focused on the importance of the ocean, scientific exploration, and the challenges that connect marine research with the future of our society.
The activity was organised by the Sustainability Committee and the English Immersion Plan, bringing together students, teachers, and school authorities. This academic gathering took place at the Auditorium, creating a meaningful space for students to engage with high-level scientific knowledge in a close and inspiring way.
During the session, Dr Ulloa shared part of his experience as a researcher and ocean explorer, helping students understand that the ocean is not only a vast natural space, but also a key element for life on Earth. His presentation invited the audience to reflect on the importance of ocean science, climate challenges, biodiversity, and the need to continue exploring environments that remain largely unknown.
Dr Osvaldo Ulloa is a Doctor in Oceanography and holds a Master’s and doctoral degree in Marine Biology from Dalhousie University, Canada. He also completed postdoctoral studies at the Niels Bohr Institute of the University of Copenhagen, Denmark. He is currently Director of the Millennium Institute of Oceanography, Professor at the Department of Oceanography of the University of Concepción, and a member of the Chilean Academy of Sciences.
One of the most remarkable moments of his scientific career is connected to the exploration of the Atacama Trench, the deepest place in the Southeast Pacific. As part of the Atacama Hadal expedition, Dr Ulloa became the first human being to descend to 8,062 metres in this trench, marking an important milestone for Chilean and international science.
The masterclass also included a question-and-answer session, where students had the opportunity to interact directly with Dr Ulloa. This moment was especially valuable, as it allowed them to ask questions, express curiosity, and see science as something closer, active, and connected to real people, real research, and real challenges.
As part of the ceremony, the President of the Student Council, Benjamín Pinto Laulié, presented Dr Ulloa with a recognition on behalf of Colegio Concepción, thanking him for sharing his knowledge, experience, and time with our educational community.
This masterclass became a significant opportunity to strengthen scientific curiosity, environmental awareness, and meaningful learning. It reminded us that the ocean still holds many questions, and that education has an essential role in inspiring new generations to observe, ask, explore, and care for the world they inhabit.
