A highlight for Mining Journalism Training (MJT) attendees this year was experiencing a controlled live blast at Canyon Coal’s Mpumalanga-based Gugulethu Colliery.

Menar’s MJT programme began with robust discussions about mining and concluded with an impactful moment as trainees got to witness a blasting procedure at Gugulethu’s central pit. The annual mining literacy programme took place on 23-25 October, starting with a seminar hosted at Menar’s Sandton headquarters and followed by a tour of the coal mining operations on the second day. 

“The blast today was incredible. I have never experienced a blast before,” said Natalie Naidoo, a SHEQ Manager at Intertek Genalysis. Naidoo said the training also helped her bridge important gaps within mining from the exploration phase to how the mineral exports system in South Africa functions.  

Trainees observed silently as Gugulethu Mine Manager Corne Vlok counted down to zero before the electronic explosives detonated, creating an epic scene along the horizon. The live blast was preceded by a safety induction and a presentation by Gugulethu General Manager and Canyon Coal COO Jarmi Steyn who unpacked all the processes involved in developing a new mine from exploration, production and getting the product to market. Trainees also got to see the processing plant and the pit area.

Researcher at the City of Joburg Khayelihle Mdakane attended MJT to get insight on what happens after a mine has reached its end of life. “I think the whole experience is packaged properly, even though it’s technical, the Q & A sessions give you an opportunity to engage with the content in a more relatable manner,” said Mdakane. 

Previously MJT was reserved for journalists, but this year the programme welcomed professionals and students from various fields of study the first time since it was established in 2017. The aim was to enrich the conversations and give other individuals with an interest in mining literacy an opportunity to participate. It is crucial for young professionals to have access to mining literacy, given the vital role of mining in South Africa’s economy and society. Furthermore, encouraging conversations about the sector could inspire innovative ideas that could take the economy forward. The lineup of speakers at the seminar included Co-Director at the WITS University DSI_NRF Cimera Prof Susan Webb who touched on South Africa’s geology and the country's mining history, while Minerals Council SA Chief Economist Hugo Pienaar spoke about the challenges and opportunities within the mining sector. 

Programme facilitator Dianne Hawker said the diversity of speakers ensured that a wide range of topics was covered, while trainees also brought value to the discussions by asking compelling questions.  “They were inquiring minds which I think is the most important part of any kind of training and they really wanted to know more. We also got to hear some of their personal perspectives,” Hawker remarked.  

During her presentation Imbokodo Mining Services MD Kgothatso Nhlengetwa unpacked the country’s policies on artisanal and small-scale mining which sparked an interesting debate about illegal mining in SA. COSATU’s Head of Policy and Unit Labour Market Tanya van Meelis talked about how 4IR and Just Energy Transition reforms could shape employment within the industry. Participants also engaged in breakaway discussions in groups, allowing them more room to share their views during the session. Trainees also took part in a quiz challenge based on some of the topics discusses, with prizes on offer for those who gave the correct answers. 

Mukurukuru Media Executive Director Lucas Ledwaba shared his experiences of covering the Marikana Massacre, while Co-head of Mining and Resources at Nedbank Greg Webber took the room through the interesting world of mining finance. Junior Analyst Yasmin Sizwe said she applied with hopes of gaining wider perspective about the industry. “It has changed my perception because I have gained a lot of rich information about how certain processes work which has been really interesting to experience,” said Sizwe.