The future of mining in the North West Province depends on the availability of high-calibre mining professionals with specialised skills, and the North-West University (NWU) is an integral part of achieving this.
Now, a potential partnership with one of Australia’s top mining schools is set to boost the university’s efforts to strengthen mining education and research and establish a mining school.
Dr Sihe Nhleko, director of the NWU’s Centre for Sustainable Mining (CSM), has met with leading mining and minerals experts at The University of Queensland (UQ), Prof Rick Valenta from the Sustainable Minerals Institute and Prof Ross McAree of the School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering.
During his visit in late November, Dr Nhleko explored advanced technologies and training models that could support the NWU’s growing mining footprint. UQ is known for its capabilities in autonomous mining systems, earth drone geoscience surveying, renewable-energy storage technologies, virtual reality-based training solutions and programmes focused on environmental and social responsibility.
Abundant opportunities for collaboration
The partnership discussions between the NWU and UQ identified several areas for collaboration, including joint seminars, co-supervision of postgraduate students, shared thesis examination panels, exchanges and short learning programmes.
These initiatives are expected to accelerate the NWU’s readiness for the rollout of its planned School of Mines and Mining Engineering, a long-term project designed to expand the university’s presence in South Africa’s mining sector.
The NWU aims to launch a physical office in Rustenburg, with expanded facilities expected by 2029. The ultimate objective is a fully fledged Rustenburg satellite campus offering professional engineering and mining qualifications by 2032.
For the North West Province, home to some of the world’s largest platinum producers, this development promises to reshape local skills pipelines and boost research capacity and employment opportunities. Communities stand to benefit through more industry-aligned graduates, improved mining-community partnerships and innovations that address safety, environmental challenges and sustainable extraction.
“Our engagement with the University of Queensland reinforces a simple message: the future of mining in the North West depends on education, innovation and responsible practice,” said Dr Nhleko.
“As the NWU prepares to establish the School of Mines and Mining Engineering, partnerships like this ensure that our students, researchers and communities benefit from international expertise while addressing the real challenges facing our province. We are building a mining future that is technically strong, socially grounded and sustainable for generations to come,” he concluded
