South Africa's Wits Mining Institute will launch two new mining research centres in Johannesburg, the University of Witwatersrand said.
One research centre will focus on Real Time Information Management Systems, while the other will focus on Successful Application of Technology Centred Around People. Work in the two research hubs will begin early next year.
These themes are being pursued by the Mandela Mining Precinct in Johannesburg.
The research centres "allow for further interdisciplinary research to inform a 21st century model of mining that is both sustainable and competitive," acting WMI Director Ingrid Watson said.
The two hubs will work on creating new knowledge about mining technology, data systems and processes in the mining sector. They will also work to develop people-centric approaches to jobs, skills, ESG issues, and stakeholder inclusivity.
Each centre will be led by a Research Competence Lead, and will include a postdoctoral student, a doctoral student, and up to four master's students.
The findings from the research centres will be provided to the MMP, which will build on these ideas in their applied research.
The success of South Africa's mining sector will depend on the quality of innovation across the value chain, MMP strategic advisor Dick Kruger said.
"It is my belief that the research centres will provide this foundation," he said.
