AMSZ Symposium Highlighted Tech Adaptation in Mine Surveying
The Association of Mine Surveyors of Zimbabwe (AMSZ)‘s one-day symposium held in Bulawayo recently successfully highlighted the importance of adapting to technological changes, updating educational curricula, and ensuring that legislative frameworks adequately reflect the evolving needs of the mining industry.
By addressing these key areas, the symposium set a clear path for the future development of the mine surveying profession in Zimbabwe.
The Role of ZSM
The one-day symposium organized by the AMSZ featured significant discussions on the pivotal role played by the Zimbabwe School of Mines (ZSM) in the mining industry. Linton Mapasure, Acting Training Operations Manager and Head of Service presented a comprehensive overview of ZSM’s evolving curriculum and its alignment with industry demands.
“By 2004, the department had improved its curriculum and equipment without altering the core competencies of its graduates. In 2014, the curriculum was revamped to include advanced mathematics and survey methods, aligning with the Mine Survey Certificate of Competence,” Mapasure explained.
Mapasure highlighted that the ZSM’s curriculum now spans 20 subjects, equipping graduates to ensure regulatory compliance, obtain permits, and analyze data for operational efficiency. He also emphasized the incorporation of modern technologies like RTK GPS, the Mavic 2 Pro drone, and various 3D survey software to enhance students’ skills.
Looking ahead, ZSM plans to include virtual and augmented reality, robotics, and drone surveys in its curriculum. Mapasure assured the symposium participants of ZSM’s preparedness for new candidates, though additional resources for specific survey papers were still needed. He concluded by advocating for exemptions for ZSM diploma holders based on the merit of their curriculum when obtaining a Certificate of Competence.
Examiners Meeting Brief
Mr. C. Dick provided a brief yet insightful discussion from the perspective of the Association of Mine Surveyors on the Ministry of Mines Examination Board. He addressed recent resolutions concerning the Certificate of Competence examinations and highlighted several key observations.
“Reviewing the recent examinations from November, we noted some information shared on social media within our group can lead to miscommunications,” Dick stated.
He stressed the importance of adhering to the revised syllabus from 2016 and discussed the proposal for allowing trial surveys post-written exams, which requires statutory amendments.
Dick also mentioned the necessity for candidates to pass all eight subjects to obtain the certificate, indicating that some subjects have become outdated. He emphasized the need for a balanced approach between academic and professional qualifications, underscoring the practical skills essential for mine surveyors.
The examination board’s discussions also touched on international recognition, urging for amendments to regulations and active involvement in professional development to enhance the professional standing of mine surveyors in Zimbabwe.
Status of Mine Surveyors’ Certificate of Competence
Mr. Sherpard Mpinyuri delivered an in-depth presentation on the development and current status of the Government Mine Surveyor’s Certificate of Competence. He traced the evolution of the certificate from its inception to its current form, highlighting significant milestones and technological advancements.
“The first examinations for the Government Mine Surveyor Certificate of Competence were set in June 1947. Since then, up to 2024, the Office of the Chief Government Mine Engineer has issued 171 certificates, averaging about two per year,” Mpinyuri noted, expressing concern over the low qualification rate.
Mpinyuri emphasized the need for a syllabus review due to technological advancements and changing industry needs. He called for updates similar to those made in 1997 when Mine Planning Management Principles were introduced to shift the focus from mine valuation to mine economics.
He also stressed the importance of effectively utilizing mine surveyors in the industry, noting their critical role in optimizing and enhancing the profitability of mining operations. Mpinyuri concluded by advocating for higher qualifications and modern standards to ensure the continued relevance and respect of the survey profession.
Mining Bill Submissions
AMSZ President Gabriel Mwale highlighted the symposium’s significance in addressing the pressing issues facing mine surveyors, particularly in the context of the Mining Bill. In an interview following the symposium, Mwale praised the collaborative efforts and the progress made in aligning the interests of various stakeholders.
“This symposium was very, very beneficial, especially to us in the Executive Committee of the Mine Surveyors,” Mwale stated. He emphasized the integration of new members with diverse educational backgrounds, leading to the formation of a Curriculum Development Committee to harmonize the different qualifications.
Mwale also underscored the importance of defining and regulating mine surveying within the Mining Bill. “These statutory instruments, the regulations are going to be revised, but they are going to find their footing from the bill. What we want to try and do now is to make sure that the survey is also defined in the bill,” he explained.
The symposium served as a platform for AMSZ to provide submissions to the bill and address regulatory issues, ensuring that the profession’s interests are well-represented in the legislative framework.
Current Industry Needs, Trends, and Analysis
The symposium also delved into the current needs, trends, and analysis of the mining industry. Discussions highlighted the ongoing technological advancements and the critical role of continuous professional development in keeping pace with industry demands.
Linton Mapasure emphasized the need for ZSM to stay ahead of industry trends by incorporating advanced technologies into their curriculum. “We are currently training our staff and students in these technologies to stay ahead of industry needs,” Mapasure stated, referring to the use of RTK GPS, drones, and 3D survey software.
The need for modernized training was echoed by other speakers, who pointed out that traditional methods of mine surveying are being rapidly replaced by more efficient and precise technological solutions. This shift necessitates a comprehensive review and update of the current syllabus to ensure that new graduates are well-equipped to handle the latest industry challenges.
Future Prospects
The symposium concluded on an optimistic note, with AMSZ President Gabriel Mwale outlining the future prospects for mine surveyors in Zimbabwe. He mentioned the possibility of organizing another symposium soon to discuss other critical issues affecting the profession.
“This symposium has been the best. We want also to be organizing another one very soon, so that we can talk about other things affecting the mine survey,” Mwale concluded.
This article first appeared in the 73rd Edition of the Mining Zimbabwe Magazine