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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

Imperium honours top performers
2012-08-17

Attending Imperium Residence’s academic evening was, from left: Dr Scarpa Schoeman, Residence Head of Veritas, Dr Mpho Moagi-Jama, Residence Head of Imperium; Michael van Niekerk, Primarius of Imperium; Monique Visser; Mr Pura Mgolombane, Assistant Dean of Student Life and Leadership; and Monique Janse van Rensburg, a former primaria of Imperium.
Photo: Amanda Tongha
17 August 2012

 

The city residence Imperium, previously known as Medix, honoured its academic performers during the residence’s annual academic evening, which was held on Thursday 16 August 2012. Certificates were handed out to the residence’s top first-year and senior students.

A bursary of R10 000 was also handed over to a student. The money was collected by the students themselves. Monique Visser, a first-year medical student, who was among the top ten matriculants in the Western Cape in 2011, received the bursary. Monique was also named the second best student in her year group.

Michael van Niekerk, Primarius of Imperium and the best third-year student, praised Monique for her hard work and said it was good to give back to students.

Dr. Mpho Moagi-Jama, the residence head of Imperium, praised her students and said they must continue being outstanding.

Imperium, which underwent a name change recently, is open to male and female students in all fields of study.
 

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