The Zimbabwe School of Mines (ZSM) has significantly expanded its curriculum to address emerging industry demands and skill shortages, particularly in value addition and beneficiation, Mining Zimbabwe reports.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
Speaking at the Association of Mine Managers of Zimbabwe (AMMZ) Annual General Meeting held at the Holiday Inn Hotel in Bulawayo, ZSM Principal Edwin Gwaze outlined new course offerings and strategic initiatives designed to equip graduates with practical, industry-relevant skills.
Gwaze noted that, beyond traditional courses such as Metallurgy, Surveying, Geology, and Mining, the school has introduced programs focused on critical areas of value addition.
“We have introduced foundry technology as a new course, which has been well-received. All students in this area have already been placed for industrial attachments, demonstrating strong interest from the foundry sector,” he said.
Additionally, ZSM has launched a diploma in iron and steel making, aligning with the country’s recent steel industry developments.
“With the rise of steel plants in Zimbabwe, it was essential to create a course that prepares our students to meet the evolving needs of this sector,” Gwaze added.
Collaboration and Expanded Offerings
To address the need for skilled surveyors, ZSM collaborated with the Mine Survey Association of Zimbabwe to introduce a certificate course targeting survey assistants. This initiative aims to bridge skills gaps and ensure a steady pipeline of qualified surveyors for the industry.
The Mining Department has also expanded its programs, introducing certificates and diplomas in Mine Occupational Health and Safety and a diploma in Mining Engineering Shaft Technician. The latter addresses a critical issue: the aging workforce of shaft timbermen.
“Most mines are struggling to fill this role, so we developed this course to ensure a supply of skilled personnel in this vital area,” Gwaze explained.
In the Geology Department, ZSM has launched courses in gemology and gemstone cutting and polishing. These are part of a broader strategy to enhance the country’s capacity in the gemstones sector.
“We are proud to have trained students who are now actively working in gemology, with all our graduates already placed in relevant jobs,” Gwaze stated.
Tailored Training and Industrial Attachments
ZSM has also tailored training programs for specific mining companies, such as Barrick Gold in Tanzania. These programs combine online and in-person learning to meet the unique needs of each company.
One of ZSM’s significant achievements has been improving industrial attachment rates for students.
“This year, we managed to place 91% of our students on attachment, a significant improvement from the challenges we faced post-COVID,” Gwaze said. However, a few students, mainly from the gemology program, are scheduled to begin their attachments in August.
Future Initiatives
Looking ahead, ZSM plans to establish an experimental mine to provide students with a practical, real-world learning environment.
“We have identified an area in the Bubi district and applied for a reserved area of 350 acres with the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development. This mine will help us produce hands-on graduates and address challenges in artisanal and small-scale mining,” Gwaze said.
The school is also investing in new facilities, including a lapidary workshop and a metallurgical and analytical laboratory. Gwaze revealed that the laboratory is equipped with advanced instruments, including an upcoming Inductively Coupled Plasma (ICP) machine, and is on track to achieve ISO 17025 certification by June 2025.
Additionally, ZSM is setting up a drone training school to provide practical skills in drone operation, particularly for surveying students.
“We already have trainers with the necessary certifications and are working toward full licensing to enable us to produce certified drone pilots,” Gwaze stated.
Challenges and Call for Support
Despite these advancements, ZSM faces challenges, including inadequate training equipment, a high student-to-equipment ratio, and limited student accommodation.
“Most of our students live off-campus, which presents challenges, especially with the rise in drug abuse. In-house accommodation would allow us to monitor and support our students better,” Gwaze said.
He called for increased support from the mining industry in areas such as curriculum development, practical training exposure, and scholarships for underprivileged students.
“We have students with great potential who are forced to drop out due to financial constraints. Industry scholarships could make a big difference,” he urged.
ZSM also welcomes partnerships with mining companies for joint research and development projects to foster innovation and strengthen ties between academia and industry.
“We invite industry players to collaborate with us in developing cutting-edge solutions for the mining sector,” Gwaze concluded.
As ZSM expands its course offerings and facilities, it is positioning itself as a key player in Zimbabwe’s mining education sector, producing graduates equipped to meet the industry’s evolving needs.
