THE Zimbabwe Mining Safety Health Environmental Council (Zimshec) and its partners have applauded Gwanda State University (GSU)’s decision to establish a model gold mine as part of efforts to spread mining education.
“This is a development where the institution has aligned itself with resources in the country and in particular its province. It is a giant step towards responsible mining that we have always advocated and championed,”Zimshec spokesperson Philemon Mokuele said in an interview.
“We also congratulate the Young Miners Foundation (YMF) for this thoughtfulness and pledge our full support for this huge initiative. It opens doors for proper mining and this is a win for Zimbabwe. We have always said proper mining, responsible mining will reduce mining accidents and save lives and the environment.”
GSU has signed a deal to collaborate with YMF to establish a model gold mine for students from different institutions to engage in mining actvities.
The model gold mine will enable tertiary students to appreciate the gold mining industry doing practical work-related programmes.
“This will obviously boost production. Nothing beats informed activities and we will engage the institution to offer basic courses for small-scale and artisanal miners who are under our spotlight,” added Mokuele.
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More than 100 small-scale and artisanal miners have, through a partnership with the School of Mines and GSU, graduated in short-to-medium term courses and Zimshec believes after that education zero harm is achievable.
“We note that Gwanda State University has said it would provide short courses and degrees in exploration, mining and mineral beneficiation we feel is key to the expansion and growth of our country’s mining industry,” said Mokuele, who is also the chairperson of Matabeleland South Small-Scale Miners Association.
About 15 official organisations in Zimbabwe have reported that upwards of 500 000 small-scale predominantly gold miners are operating in the country and supporting approximately three million dependants.