Emerging South African coal-miner Coal of Africa Limited has launched the Thovhele Toni Mphephu Ramabulana Bursary Fund in Limpopo province.

The company has to date invested ZAR 2.5 million in the scheme and the bursary fund has been established to encourage more students to study at tertiary institutions, equipping them to consider a career in mining.

At the end of 2008, 32 students were awarded full bursaries from the fund in the fields of engineering, geology and science. Of the 32 students, 14 are females and 18 are males.

CoAL said that the bursary fund will make a significant difference to students from under-represented groups in the region, particularly those who may not have otherwise considered or could not have afforded tertiary education. It will also help encourage more students to choose science based subjects, which will improve the region’s skills capacity.

CoAL said that to be selected for the bursary scheme, the candidate’s field of study has to be mining related; they should come from the Vhembe district; candidates need to perform well in mathematics, science and English language; and applicants must have proof of admission at a preferred institution.

Mr Simon Farrell CEO of CoAL said that the increased commitment to training will tackle the skills shortage in the mining industry in Limpopo province and provide a benefit to the communities in which CoAL operates.

(Sourced from miningweekly.com)