In the current South African mining industry landscape, a strategic amalgamation of collaboration, innovation and skills development is imperative for sustainable growth – at this critical juncture mining industry organisation Minerals Council South Africa plays a pivotal role by offering strategic guidance and advice.

One of its primary functions is to facilitate constructive dialogue among mining employers, enabling them to address policy issues and formulate unified industry positions.

These initiatives, rooted in voluntary consultation and collaboration, underscore the council's commitment to fostering cooperation and ensuring the sector's sustainable growth, through for example, skills development.

However, developing the necessary skills for the mining industry is challenging in many ways, according to training centre Geostrat Training owner Ben van Wyk.

These challenges include a history of limited educational opportunities, a convoluted tertiary education system, and a weak basic education foundation, that have left many employees with insufficient skill levels.

Further, this shortage of skills is pervasive across all economic sectors, says Van Wyk, thereby intensifying the struggle for companies to retain staff and escalating the demand for training and development in the mining industry.

In tandem with the Minerals Council’s vision, Geostrat Training has undertaken the responsibility of improving South Africa’s mining workforce through meticulously designed training programmes which address critical challenges faced by the industry, ensuring a skilled, empowered and safety-conscious workforce.

Geostrat Training's plan is designed to foster the growth of South Africa's mineral industry cluster, which, Van Wyk explains, will be achieved through accelerated development of a skilled workforce, bolstering essential connections with sector-focused university and community college programmes, and improving overall coordination and collaboration among industry, academia and government stakeholders.

“The plan advocates for a collaborative framework, establishing a South Africa-based Centre of Excellence in Mining. This center aligns closely with the priorities outlined by the Mine Qualifications Authority (MQA), the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, and the national mining industry,” he explains.

Geostrat Training's courses are structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of the mining industry, balancing practical and theoretical knowledge.

“This holistic approach ensures cost-effective training, equipping attendees with in-depth expertise that extends beyond immediate job requirements.”

Geostrat Training maintains current knowledge of industry standards and technologies, ensuring continual access to expert training for both prospective and current mineworkers.

“Our approach emphasises practical expertise, delivered by experienced practitioners. We have a track record of providing training for diverse organisations, including major corporations and government entities,” he explains.

The company also actively promotes the participation of women in the mining workforce, which the company achieves by providing preference to prospective female students.

Through its localised training initiatives, Geostrat Training strengthens local skills, aligning with the Minerals Council's objective of promoting community development. This approach not only enhances the capabilities of local talent but also elevates South Africa's gross domestic product per capita, fostering economic growth and wealth distribution, Van Wyk adds.