Mining Companies Urged to Sponsor More Bursaries To Students

Mineral Resources Minister Mosebenzi Zwane has called on mining companies to help government address the country’s education challenges by offering more bursaries to students in need.

Speaking at the handover of houses built for mineworkers in Lephalale, Limpopo, Minister Zwane appealed to the sector to contribute more towards funding education and skills development.

The houses are part of Exxaro’s Grootegeluk coal mine’s Social and Labour Plan (SLP) commitment. An SLP is a prerequisite for the granting of a mining or production right under the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act.

“As far as possible, bearing in mind the economic situation, it would be important for mining companies to come to the party – not only for the long-term sustainability of the mining sector but for the economy as a whole,” Minister Zwane said.

The Minister welcomed the commitment by Exxaro CEO Sipho Nkosi to support the initiative. He also commended the company for their contribution to the Lephalale community thus far.

“The company has taken the first step towards assisting employees towards home ownership and the fact that 20% [of the project] will be made available to members of the community is indeed welcome. It is encouraging to see the way the company is integrated into the community in which they operate.”

He further urged the company and its employees to work together in prioritising matters of health and safety. – SAnews.gov.za