The University of Limpopo, in collaboration with African Rainbow Minerals, is strengthening teaching, research, and infrastructure development.
In 2025, the University of Limpopo and African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) entered into a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing collaboration in teaching, research, infrastructure development, and student support within the Faculty of Science and Agriculture.
The MoU brings together the Department of Geology and Mining and the Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing Earth Sciences education and research in Limpopo
Province and across South Africa.
As part of this partnership, African Rainbow Minerals has committed R5 million towards the development of key laboratory infrastructure within the University’s new Earth Science Building. This initiative represents a significant investment in scientific infrastructure at the University of Limpopo and contributes to:
- Enhancing the quality of teaching and learning in Earth Sciences
- Supporting postgraduate research and innovation
- Improving student access to modern analytical and computational tools
- Developing industry-ready graduates aligned with the needs of the mining
sector - Advancing regional development through skills development in a mining-
intensive province
At the launch and unveiling of the African Rainbow Minerals-supported laboratories, the Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Limpopo, Dr JM Mabelebele, together with the Chief Executive Officer of ARM, Mr Phillip Tobias, will celebrate this successful collaboration with the private sector in advancing mining-focused education, while showcasing the upgraded teaching and learning infrastructure.
Day One: Symposium on Shaping the Future of Mining
Theme: Shaping the Future of Mining: technology, talent, and Transformative
Date: Tuesday, 21 April 2026
Venue: Magoebaskloof Auditorium, Earth Sciences Building
Time: 08h00
Event Speakers
Dr Busi Tshabalala Group Executive Human Resources African Rainbow Minerals
Dr Busi Tshabalala Group Executive Human Resources ARM
Victor Mandla Moyo Geology Manager ARM
Dr Bambesiwe Mbesi May, Lecturer University of Venda
Kgabo Ntlatleng, MRM HOD ARM Bokoni Platinum Mines
Noko Sekwati, Acting Geologist ARM
Victor Thobakgale Technology Operations Lead – ARM
Day Two: Launch of African Rainbow Minerals Laboratories
The event will mark the official opening of the following laboratories:
a)Â ARM Microscope LaboratoryÂ
This laboratory is equipped with approximately 24 petrographic microscopes, supporting practical training in mineralogy and petrology. It provides students with hands-on experience in mineral identification and rock analysis, essential skills in geology and mining.
b) ARM Research Laboratory
This dedicated computer laboratory is designed for postgraduate students. The facility is equipped with desktop computers to support teaching, data analysis, research, and specialised geological software applications.
c) ARM Computer and Innovation Laboratory
This dedicated computer laboratory is designed for undergraduate students. The facility is equipped with 80 desktop computers, empowering students in a digital learning environment and enabling them to carry out mining-specific modelling and simulations.
Date:Â 22 April 2026
Venue:Â Earth Science Building, University of Limpopo
Time: 08:00
Host:Â University of Limpopo
Partner:Â African Rainbow Minerals