Artisanal miners celebrate certification in Ermelo
The miners successfully completed the two-month course, and received an NQF Level 2 Certificate of Competence in small-scale surface mining.
ERMELO – Thirty artisanal miners from the Gert Sibande District who completed an intensive small-scale surface mining training programme, recently celebrated their achievement with a certificate ceremony at the Gert Sibande District Municipality (GSDM) office complex.
The miners successfully completed the two-month course, which ran from February to March, and received an NQF Level 2 Certificate of Competence in small-scale surface mining.
The participants received a monthly stipend of R1 750 and learning materials, funded by the Mining Qualifications Authority as part of a partnership between the GSDM and the Mpumalanga Department of Economic Development and Tourism.
Mintek officiated the course.
The initiative aimed to equip local artisanal miners with the knowledge and skills to run safe, efficient and compliant operations, promoting sustainable and formal mining practices.
The miners received training in the mining application process, mine safety, geology, environmental compliance and business management.
The programme also covered the optimal extraction of mineral resources, encouraged economic participation and growth, and helped formalise the sector by ensuring adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations.
