• #
    Back to all articles
  • August 2026

Opening young minds to the future of mining

Grootegeluk welcomed university students for an immersive experience that brought mining to life.

For many engineering and mining students, nothing compares to experiencing a working mine first-hand. That’s exactly what Grootegeluk created when it welcomed students from the University of Johannesburg (UJ) and the University of the Witwatersrand for two educational mine visits.

The visits gave students the chance to see one of South Africa’s largest mining operations in action and discover how classroom learning translates into the real world. Through presentations, guided site visits and a mine tour, they explored Grootegeluk’s operations, technology, sustainability initiatives and strong safety culture.

Students visited key operational areas and viewpoints, experiencing the scale and complexity of the mining value chain while engaging with technical specialists and operational leaders. Along the way they learnt more about career opportunities, industry trends and the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving mining sector. Safety remained the top priority throughout the visit, with every participant following strict site protocols and personal protective equipment requirements.

The visits form part of Exxaro’s ongoing commitment to developing future talent through education, skills development and experiential learning. By opening its operations to future professionals, we are helping students explore career opportunities while strengthening the future of our industry.

Why this matters: The future of mining depends on the people who will lead it next. Giving students the opportunity to experience mining first-hand helps them connect what they learn with the careers they could one day build.​

For many engineering and mining students, nothing compares to experiencing a working mine first-hand.” 

Share with contact
  • "
    Related articles

Business & Strategy

Showcasing our strategy in action

2026 Capital Markets Day showcased how we are accelerating our SG&I strategy.

Business & Strategy

The Lephalale Solar Plant marks a major milestone in Exxaro’s energy transition.

The official opening of the Lephalale Solar Plant marked an important milestone in Exxaro's journey to build a more diversified, resilient and sustainable business.

Business & Strategy

The countdown to 20: The story behind our anniversary logo

For 20 years, Exxaro has unlocked the value of resources beneath the surface to create an impact that reaches far beyond our operations.

Business & Strategy

Building ethical partnerships for lasting impact

Grootegeluk’s Supplier Ethics Day reinforced that integrity shapes every successful partnership.

Business & Strategy

Respect starts with us speaking out

We all play a role in creating a respectful workplace where everyone feels safe to speak up.

Business & Strategy

Internal Audit Awareness Month debunks myths around fraud

Internal Audit Awareness Month challenged fraud myths and reinforced our shared responsibility to prevent it.

Business & Strategy

UJ metallurgy students get a closer look at mining

UJ Metallurgy students experienced mining first-hand during an educational visit to Leeuwpan.

Business & Strategy

Celebrating the next generation of local entrepreneurs

Leeuwpan celebrated nine graduates from its two-year Enterprise and Supplier Development Programme.