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08 April 2019 | Story Valentino Ndaba | Photo Valentino Ndaba
Andrew Lane
Mining the fourth industrial revolution way is the future says industry expert, Andrew Lane.

Innovation is imperative for the future of mining in South Africa. Industry expert, Andrew Lane proposes that leveraging on new information, mining technologies and energy knowhow, which are the hallmarks of the fourth industrial revolution, should set the scene for success.

Lane who is Africa Energy and Resource Leader at Deloitte, engaged students at a recent guest lecture hosted by the University of the Free State’s Business School on the Bloemfontein Campus. “The future is intelligent mining. It’s not just about technology; it’s about changing the way you do business,” he said.

Transforming traditional to trailblazing
“What gives you sustainable competitive advantage is the rate at which you innovate,” said Lane. Design paradigm shifts in the South African mining industry may have resulted in about 100 000 job losses during the past four years. However, mining companies stand to achieve significant gains through applying innovation.

Despite most of South Africa’s mines nearing the end of their lives, mining remains a large employer and investor attractor which ensures that the country holds a competitive advantage in the global economy. Lane is adamant that, “even though we have declined from 20% to 5% in terms of GDP contributions, mining remains a large contributor to export earnings”.

Reaching resource-rich regions
While some physical resources are inaccessible using current technology, “new mineral-processing technologies help tap into previously uneconomical mineral deposits”, according to Lane. In addition to the environment, 3D visualisation cameras can track employees and equipment in the bowels of the earth.

More mining, less loss
Integrating mining, energy, and information technology will ensure that companies reduce people, capital and energy intensity, while increasing mining intensity. The impossible can be achieved if technology is used well for developmental outcomes, employment, and improving standards of living.



News Archive

Renowned jazz artist visits UFS
2011-02-16

 

Lira, South Africa’s top selling rhythmic jazz artist is making a special appearance at the University of the Free State (UFS). Lira is celebrated for her innovative and empowering contribution to South Africa’s music scene. She will be attending an Oneiric House Exhibition hosted by the UFS at the Centenary Complex on Thursday, 8 March 2011 at 14:00.

Lira is visiting the UFS to attend a project exhibition by third-year architecture students.The project was inspired by Lira’s music and lyrics, and aims to express a transcendence of spaces through a structural investigation that explores the adaptability of structure and space.

The project challenges students to design a single structure that can transcend its form, function and type, specifically from a private house to a public space – the two most opposite environmental modes. This transformation of space is inspired by the exploration of the realm of souls through a dream space in Lira’s lyrics.

For more information contact Nosana Sondiyazi, the exhibition liaison, at 076 037 1985 or sanadivine@gmail.com.

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