A multi-phase training project was recently implemented at a Southern African mining operation by asset integrity management and industrial solutions company Dickinson Group of Companies (DGC) Africa’s education and training services division, DGC Africa Skills.

DGC Africa Skills provided mining personnel with skill sets to efficiently, productively and safely undertake various tasks at a mine to improve safety and site efficiency by enhancing communication and productivity, improving workforce efficiency and reducing the occurrence of dangerous behaviour, says DGC Africa Skills and workforce solutions GM Hervé Kisula.

“The scope included upgrading technical skills for artisans across electrical and mechanical disciplines, and delivering safety compliance training to contractors and new recruits, as well as providing leadership and productivity training to mid-level supervisors,” he notes.

This project also improved the client’s standing in terms of government compliance, in addition to empowering communities through skills development and contributing to localisation.

DGC Africa Skills provides turnkey training solutions for mining operations to equip personnel at various levels of the organisation with updated skills to navigate the environment.

Kisula says this starts with DGC Africa Skills conducting a skills gap analysis, which entails identifying training needs based on compliance requirements, roles and operational goals using on-site assessments.

Thereafter, the company will provide the mining operation with a customised training programme that includes theoretical modules and practical training to equip mine personnel – including entry-level workers, experienced artisans and supervisors – with the necessary skills.

DGC Africa Skills will then offer the mining operation on-site or centre-based training, with physical equipment, further assessments and certifications, as well as performance tracking and coaching through post-training support and reporting for ongoing development.

Training Accreditations

DGC Africa Skills’ competency-based and accredited technical training programmes range from artisan upskilling, health and safety training, and leadership development, to soft skills, communication development and equipment operator training.

“Entry-level workers gain foundational skills to secure employment and perform tasks safely; experienced artisans are able to upskill, remain compliant and take on more technical responsibilities; and supervisors are developed to manage teams and ensure operational continuity and performance,” Kisula explains.

Some of the accredited technical programmes on offer include boiler-making and fabrication, fitting and machining, and rigging and lifting, as well as national certificates in welding application and practice, and electrical engineering.

“Through our blended-learning approach, we support lifelong learning and practical skills transfer, helping individuals grow from entry-level workers to experienced supervisors and managers,” he adds.

DGC Africa’s education and training programmes also focus on providing accreditation for auto electricians, boilermakers, electricians, earthmoving mechanics, fitters, instrumentation technicians, machining fitters, plumbers, petrol and diesel mechanics, riggers and turners.

Meanwhile, in terms of the future of education and training in mining in general, Kisula says digitalisation, localisation and sustainability will be focus areas.

He highlights that DGC Africa, despite not yet fully adopting AI technologies, continues to adopt other modern technologies, such as simulation-based training tools for heavy equipment, data analytics for progress reports and digital learning platforms for blended-learning programmes.

Further, there will be an increase in the uptake of e-learning and hybrid models; skills development for automation and renewable-energy technologies; modular, micro-credential-based training; and the empowerment of youth and women in mining through inclusivity initiatives, he says.

“Our goal is to bridge the skills gap by equipping mine personnel with internationally benchmarked training, ensuring they are confident and capable in performing their duties,” concludes Kisula.