The Centre of Mining Excellence project in Botswana has reached an important milestone with the delivery of its first pilot training program at Maun Technical College. The pilot program forms part of ongoing planning for the Centre, which aims to bring together government, industry and education partners to help address skills gaps in Botswana’s mining sector.
Two pilot courses, with a focus on contemporary mining practices, workforce requirements, and health, safety and risk management principles, were attended by over fifty participants and delivered at Maun Technical College.
The Centre’s curriculum is being developed in partnership with The University of Queensland and informed by consultation with mining companies operating in Botswana to help ensure training programs align with the evolving needs of the sector. The pilot courses are being supported by Professor Doug Aitken and Professor Maureen Hassal from the University’s Sustainable Minerals Institute, who travelled to Botswana to deliver the training, engage with participants and contribute to knowledge exchange.
In addition to the pilot courses, the Sustainable Minerals Institute will deliver a two-hour workshop for Maun Technical College leadership covering the use of artificial intelligence in teaching and learning, and leadership for organisational impact.
Professor Rick Valenta, Director of the Sustainable Minerals Institute at The University of Queensland, said the pilot program highlighted the value of a collaborative approach.
“The Sustainable Minerals Institute has enjoyed a productive partnership with MMG over many years, and we are pleased to support the development of the Centre of Mining Excellence through collaboration with industry, government and education partners,” Professor Valenta said. “Botswana has a long track record of investing in education and capability, creating the right environment for initiatives such as the Centre. We look forward to seeing the contribution the Centre can make to developing mining skills and supporting opportunities for Botswana.”
MMG President, Africa Operations, Weiquan Xia, said the pilot program represented an important step in the development of the proposed Centre.
“The Centre of Mining Excellence project will benefit Batswana seeking careers in mining, the mining industry as it continues to grow and the social and economic development of Botswana as a whole,” Mr Xia said. “The Centre is intended to be industry-led, and we are encouraged by the strong expressions of interest received from other mining companies operating in Botswana that are seeking to participate and contribute to its success.”
Planning for the Centre at Maun Technical College is ongoing, including work to assess site requirements to support its establishment.
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