Two new research centres have been established at the University of the Witwatersrand’s Wits Mining Institute (WMI) in Johannesburg, South Africa.

The facilities will focus on real-time information management systems and successful application of technology centred on people. They were established through the South African Mining Extraction Research, Development and Innovation strategy, which concentrates on the modernisation of mining.

As reported by Mining Review, the research centres will work to create new knowledge about mining technology, data systems and processes associated with the industry, in addition to a people-centric focus on the impact of modernisation on jobs, skills, environmental, social and governance issues, and stakeholder inclusivity.

‘These two research centres build on the WMI’s existing expertise, and allow for further interdisciplinary research to inform a 21st century model of mining that is both sustainable and competitive,’ according to Ingrid Watson, acting director of the WMI. ‘Integral to the success of these efforts is the development of local capacity.’

7 December 2021
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