Prof Susan Webb, Associate Professor in Geosciences at the University of the Witwatersrand, delivering a keynote on solutions in the mineral and energy sectors
By Malatji Monyelegwete – malatji.monyelegwete@ul.ac.za
With mining as a key pillar of the economy and numerous deposits located in Limpopo, the Department of Geology and Mining at the University of Limpopo (UL) recently hosted the DSI-NRF CIMERA 2024 Stakeholder Engagement and Public Lecture
This event focused on the complexities of modelling and drilling magma, aiming to address challenges within the mineral and energy resource industries. As part of the event, the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), National Research Foundation (NRF) and Centre of Excellence for Integrated Mineral and Energy Resource Analysis (CIMERA) visited UL to enhance research capacity, develop skills, and provide solutions to challenges in the mineral and energy resource sectors. The theme of the event was ‘Modelling and Drilling the Largest Magma Chamber on Earth: Integrating Geophysical and Drilling Data for a Better Understanding of Bushveld Complex Geology’.
In her keynote address, Prof Susan Webb, Associate Professor from the School of Geosciences at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), highlighted DSI-NRF CIMERA’s mission. She explained that their visit was part of a nationwide roadshow to engage with various universities. “The centre fosters partnerships between universities, industry, and government to advance scientific knowledge and practical applications in geology, mining, and energy resources,” Prof Webb said.
Prof Webb highlighted the immense significance of the Bushveld Complex, one of the largest mineral-rich regions globally. This geological formation, located in South Africa, is a key player in the global mining industry, supplying an impressive 80% of the world’s platinum. In addition to platinum, the Bushveld Complex is a major source of other valuable minerals such as chromium, vanadium, and palladium, further cementing its role as a critical contributor to the global economy and industrial development. Prof Webb emphasized that the region’s resources are pivotal for advancing various industries, including automotive, energy, and technology.
Prof Nicky Wagner, the Director of DSI-NRF CIMERA
Prof Nicky Wagner, Director of DSI-NRF CIMERA and a professor in the Department of Geology at the University of Johannesburg, further outlined the objectives of their visit. “Our engagement aims to communicate CIMERA’s mandate within economic geology research and capacity building,” Prof Wagner stated. She emphasised the importance of understanding the needs and challenges faced by different university departments to tailor CIMERA’s support and align it with the national research agenda.
Maropeng Rapholo, Head of the Department of Geology and Mining at UL
Maropeng Rapholo, Head of the Department of Geology and Mining at UL highlighted the importance of the knowledge shared during the lecture. “This information will significantly benefit students in their geophysics research,” she said.
Given Limpopo’s proximity to mining industries and the Bushveld Complex, Rapholo emphasised that a strong grounding in geophysics is essential for current and future geology students. She also noted that exposure to cutting-edge equipment and techniques for geophysical methods will better prepare students for careers in the extraction and analysis of mineral resources.
The event concluded with a tour of the Department of Geology and Mining, showcasing the School of Physical and Mineral Sciences and the Earth Science building, currently under construction. This new facility promises to be a significant addition to UL’s research infrastructure, further strengthening the university’s role in the study and advancement of mineral and energy resources.