The Zimbabwe Diamond and Allied Minerals Workers Union (ZDAMWU) is urging industry stakeholders to collaborate in enhancing the global standing of local mining qualifications for the benefit of both the sector and its workforce.
By Ryan Chigoche
The vacancy, posted by Precision Recruitment International, called for a General Manager with a Mining Engineering degree “preferably obtained from a university outside Zimbabwe.”
This phrasing provoked fierce backlash within the mining sector, with local professionals viewing it as a direct devaluation of Zimbabwe’s hard-earned educational credentials.
While ZDAMWU condemned the advertisement for what it views as discrimination against locally obtained mining engineering qualifications, the Union’s General Secretary, Justice Chinhema, emphasizes the need for joint efforts among industry players to improve the quality of local qualifications and prevent such situations in the future.
“We call on industry stakeholders, regulatory authorities, and training institutions to work together to strengthen the quality and global competitiveness of Zimbabwean mining qualifications. This includes enhancing local training programs, accreditation standards, and continuous professional development opportunities. We believe that local qualifications, when supported by quality training and experience, are valuable assets that can meet international standards and contribute significantly to the growth of the mining sector without necessarily creating a form of discrimination,” Chinhema said.
“While we acknowledge that international standards and exposure can benefit professionals, we strongly advocate for the development and recognition of Zimbabwean mining engineering qualifications. Our local universities and technical colleges are capable of producing highly competent mining engineers who understand the unique geological, environmental, and socio-economic contexts of Zimbabwe’s mineral resources,” he added.
Meanwhile, stakeholders had their say on Mining Zimbabwe’s Facebook page.
Wits alumniAlthough the advertisement has drawn widespread criticism, it also offers an opportunity for self-reflection. It challenges stakeholders to critically assess the current shortcomings within Zimbabwe’s education system and to take proactive steps toward restoring the country’s reputation for producing high-calibre graduates, both within Africa and globally.
The Association of Mine Managers of Zimbabwe (AMMZ) conducts technical visits to various Mines across the country. Mining University Lecturers should take advantage and join the visits to keep abreast of advancing technologies.
Factors such as the current industrial action by university lecturers and ongoing challenges faced by tertiary institutions have, unfortunately, contributed to perceptions that undermine the value of local qualifications. Addressing these issues is vital to rebuilding pride and confidence in Zimbabwe’s engineering education and its professionals.
The Ministry of Mines and Mining Development is yet to comment on the ad. However senior officials have been in touch with this publication and are investigating which Mine the ad is from.
