Sibanye-Stillwater Empowers minds through educational excellence in South Africa

Sibanye-Stillwater Empowers minds through educational excellence in South Africa

Akona Gqada is a Unit mining manager at Sibanye-Stillwater’s South African gold Kloof operations, leading 56 stoping crews.

 

Akona was a bursary student as well as graduate in training at Sibanye-Stillwater. This led to her now achieving her bachelor’s degree in mining engineering and obtained various other certificates and tickets that have assisted her in her engineering career. Through the Sibanye-Stillwater’s Gold Academy she completed a leadership development course, leadership training, and shift boss ticket.

Her impacts include coordinating projects as a project manager, she also recommended and implemented strategies that contributed to improving safety and production in the mines.

“I owe my greatest appreciation to a lot of people who mentored me in this industry.”

Sibanye-Stillwater’s commitment to education extends far beyond individual success stories. The Group believe that investing in education is an investment in the future of South Africa.

Aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education), Sibanye-Stillwater has implemented a comprehensive approach to education and skills development which in turn is building a high-quality talent pool pipeline and reducing skill shortages in certain job categories in the mining industry.

Sibanye-Stillwater’s approach to education is multifaceted. The Group’s initiatives span various levels, from early childhood development to tertiary education including:

• Tertiary Education: Supporting bursars, including top matriculants from disadvantaged communities. Over 900 bursars have been given already and these students are pursuing degrees at leading South African universities, building a pipeline of skilled professionals

• Research and Development: Funding the groundbreaking DigiMine project, a collaboration with the University of Witwatersrand and the Simulacrum initiative in partnership with the University of Johannesburg (UJ). Both universities have established state-of-the-art facilities that allow for research of digital technologies and the training of graduate professionals in the “mine of the future”. This initiative is at the forefront of technological advancements in the mining industry
• Skills Development: More than 7,969 learners have benefited from mining and engineering post-graduate internships. This program provides invaluable practical experience and contributes to building a skilled workforce
• Adult Education and Training (AET): AET programs have empowered over 9,192 adult learners to acquire new skills and enhance their job prospects
• Youth Development: The Cadettes Program has supported 2,806 unemployed youth, equipping them with essential skills for entry-level jobs in sectors such as plumbing and welding. Additionally, the Portable Vocational Skills program has benefited 4,056 individuals through hands-on learning opportunities
• Early Childhood Development (ECD): Investing in the foundation of education, Sibanye-Stillwater has trained 72 practitioners and equipped 76 ECD centers with essential resources. This focus on early childhood development is crucial for nurturing future generations
• Infrastructure: Recognizing the importance of a conducive learning environment and upgrading of schools, Sibanye-Stillwater has contributed significantly to the President’s Sanitation Appropriate for Education (SAFE) initiative, building school facilities in the Eastern Cape and Limpopo

These initiatives highlight Sibanye-Stillwater’s dedication to creating a positive impact on education and skills development in South Africa. By investing in people, the company is building a stronger, more prosperous future for all.

Sibanye-Stillwater’s influence is noticeable in various aspects of the communities where it operates.Through bursaries, internships, and vocational training programs, the Group has created pathways to success for thousands of young people. By investing in education and skills development, Sibanye-Stillwater is not only building a talent pipeline for its own operations but also contributing to the broader South African economy.

As participating company of the Global Compact Network South Africa since 2020 Sibanye-Stillwater has participated in the Global Compact’s Youth SDG innovators programme and the SDG accelerators programmes (SDG Innovation, Climate Ambition Accelerator and Gender Equality).

Sibanye-Stillwater acknowledges the value of being a member of the Global Compact. The UN Global Compact’s framework has been instrumental in guiding the Group’s social impact efforts. By aligning initiatives with the SDGs, Sibanye-Stillwater can measure progress and identify areas for improvement.

Sibanye-Stillwater’s commitment to education is an inspiration to other companies. By prioritising social impact, the Group demonstrates that business can be a force for good.

Sibanye-Stillwater’s education initiatives have contributed to the development of individuals like Akona, supporting their personal and professional growth. These programs have provided opportunities for learners to acquire skills and knowledge, potentially enhancing their future prospects. While these efforts have had positive impacts, they are part of a broader strategy to address community needs and promote sustainable development.

“Sibanye-Stillwater’s unwavering commitment to education is a powerful example of how business can be a force for positive change” says Dr Achieng Ojwang, Executive Director of Global Compact Network South Africa.

By investing in the potential of young people and fostering a skilled workforce, they are not only building a sustainable future for their Group but also contributing to the broader development of South Africa. Their work exemplifies the spirit of the UN Global Compact and inspires us all to strive for a more equitable and sustainable world.”