The Mandela Mining Precinct’s Successful Application of Technology Centred Around People (SATCAP), in collaboration with the Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources (DMPR), hosted a Mining Careers Study Tour at UJ’s Department of Mining Engineering and Mine Surveying, Doornfontein Campus, on 17 July 2025.
The initiative, a core part of SATCAP’s mandate of capacity development, brought together 60 high school learners in Grades 10–12, 15 educators from KwaZulu-Natal, MMP interns, and six members of the South African Mining Youth Association (SAMYA). The aim was to showcase the wide range of career opportunities available in mining, introduce digital innovation as a growing career path, and provide practical bursary and entrepreneurship information.
The programme included a series of engaging presentations from industry professionals. Prof. Grobler outlined careers in mining engineering and mine surveying, stressing the importance of subject selection and strong academic results. Adding a personal perspective, Sivuyile Mkhondweni, an MMP intern and geologist, spoke about her journey in geology, underscoring the dedication and resilience needed to thrive in this field. Wessel Botha from Enterprises University of Pretoria highlighted the blend of technical and soft skills, such as critical thinking, collaboration, and data analysis that are becoming increasingly vital. In his presentation on digital innovation, Craig Potter (Digital Twin) demonstrated how digital technologies, data processing, and advanced collaboration are shaping the mining industry of tomorrow. His session gave learners an appreciation of how technology and mining are becoming increasingly interconnected.
The concluding sessions focused on access to higher education and financial support. Tshepo Mmola (UJ) explained the university’s application and registration processes, including admission point score (APS) calculations and key deadlines. While Tebogo Nkwane (DMPR) introduced learners to the Department’s bursary scheme for mining and energy-related fields, walking them through the application process and highlighted the importance of honesty and accuracy in submissions.
The highlight of the day was the immersive experience in UJ’s Mock Mine, where participants gained first-hand exposure to the underground mining environment. This practical component provided learners with a tangible sense of what mining work entails and deepened their understanding of the sector. Educators and school management expressed strong support for the initiative, noting its value in broadening learners’ horizons and clarifying career pathways. For learners, SAMYA members, and MMP interns alike, the study tour served as both an educational and inspirational experience, demonstrating the breadth of opportunities in mining and related fields.
By combining industry expertise, academic engagement, and hands-on experience, the SATCAP Careers Study Tour highlighted the importance of preparing the next generation for a mining sector that is modern, innovative, inclusive, and future-ready.
