Social & Labour Plan

Our AET programme was designed to improve literacy of community members as majority of the community members did not complete high school education.

To date, a total of 315 participants, from which 95 pre-AET, 115 AET Level 3 and 56 AET Level 4 learners had passed, expanding their horizons and enhancing their employability.

Nkwe Platinum Limited, collaborated with Gears Technology to provide skills transfer training to 4 community members at Gears Technology’s factory in Phalaborwa. Training in basic welding, basic disc polishing, and basic metal cutting were provided to each of the community candidates. One candidate was selected from each of the four directly affected mine communities of the Zijin Garatau Platinum Mine.

The training period for the candidates began in July 2022 and took 3 weeks to one month to be completed. Once the skills transfer training programme was completed, the candidates were placed by Gears Technology in related work contracts for the core-shed construction project at the Mine.

We also partnered with a community-based SETA-Accredited services provider to train an additional 10 (ten) learners from its mining communities for basic welding at Marble Hall. The training programme occurred over a three-month period, starting from 22^nd of July 2022 and was completed on the 16^th of November 2022.

The learners undertook practical exercises in Arc welding – a technique that uses an electric arc to generate heat and melt metals to be joined together – and were also empowered with cutting and grinding skills. Certificates in basic welding NQF Level 2 were awarded to the learners.

We have trained 16 Rock Drill Operator (RDO) learners from our four mine communities. The learners were enrolled for a three-month training period, which began on the 3^rd November 2022 and ended on the 3^rd of February 2023.

This training programme included real-time practical training in a shaft. With the theoretical and practical exercises completed, the learners were awarded an NQF Certificate for RDO with a competent B Certificate and will be fully competent to work underground in mining or construction operations.

A qualified RDO learner will be able to operate a hand-held rock drill for mining or construction operations.

In continuation of our SLP training programmes, we have trained another 20 (twenty) Rock Drill Operator (RDO) learners from our Mine communities of Garatouw, Maandagshoek, De Kom, Hoepakrantz and Makwana. Training commenced on the 4^th of September this year and included real-time practical training in a shaft.

With the theoretical and practical exercises completed in November 2023., the learners will be awarded an NQF Certificate for RDO with a competent B Certificate and will be fully competent to work underground in mining or construction operations. A qualified RDO learner will be able to operate a hand-held rock drill for mining or construction operations.

We provided training for another 16 learners from its directly-affected communities in Trackless Mobile Machinery (TMM) technology at the Bokoni Platinum Mine.

The learners completed practical and theoretical exercises at the Bokoni Platinum Mine Training Centre, over a course of two months, from the 17^th of October 2022 until the first week of December 2022. They were awarded a certificate for Trackless Mobile Machinery, specialising in Loading, Hauling and Dumping (LHD) trucks.

An additional 20 (twenty) learners from five of the Mine’s directly-affected communities were provided training in Trackless Mobile Machinery (TMM) technology at the Bana ba Thari Training Academy. The candidates were enrolled in November 2023 for a one-month course, in which they will learn theory on self-propelled mobile machines used for transport, mining, or related operations.

The learners will be awarded Drill Rig Certificates and Competent B Certificates, as well as Dover test certificates that expire in one year.

In a proactive move towards enhancing operational efficiency and workforce readiness, Nkwe Platinum Limited, (a wholly owned subsidiary of the Zijin Mining Group) established a comprehensive training programme. This initiative aims to equip local candidates from surrounding communities with the essential skills to operate crucial underground machinery.

In addition to trainees from previous years, another 20 (twenty) candidates, combined from Maandagshoek, Garatau, Kom, Hoepakrantz and Makwana, enrolled to become TMM (Drill Rig) operators. These individuals learnt the intricacies of operating drill rigs underground, a pivotal task during the development and production phases of mining operations.

The initiative to undertake these roles was driven by the learners’ desire to expedite production processes at the Mine and enhance their employability across the mining sector. Mastery of these technologies will not only eventually meet critical operational needs at the Zijin Garatau Platinum Mine once it is fully operational but will also open avenues for their employment at other mines.

This programme emphasises Nkwe Platinum Limited’s commitment to local community development and empowerment through skills training and employment opportunities. By investing in local talent and equipping them with specialised skills, the Mine not only strengthens its operational capabilities but also contributes to the sustainable socio-economic growth of the region.

Additionally, a further 23 learners were enrolled from our four mine communities for Competent B training. The training consists of the Installation and maintenance of any support unit and the removal of a temporary support unit in Underground Hard Rock Operations.

This skills-development programme took place from 10^th of October 2022 to the 9^th of December 2022, and was completed successfully in three months.

All learners received Competent B Certificates. The top 15 performers will be afforded career opportunities within the Zijin Garatau Platinum Mine, once the mine is fully operational.

Training in road maintenance was also provided by the Company to 20 other learners from the 4 (four) host communities.

The training programme consisted of road development and maintenance strategies, as well as practical applications. Candidates from the communities participated in this programme that took place over a period of three months, from the 17^th of October 2022 until the 23^rd of December 2022.

They were each be awarded a certificate in road maintenance for construction.

Additionally, Nkwe Platinum Limited worked together with a community-based skills training service provider to provide SETA-accredited training for 26 community members, in the areas clothing and textiles; and beauty and care.

With a division of 13 trainees in each field of expertise, each division received a 3-month training programme in their choice of specialisation.

Due to an overwhelming positive response from last year, Nkwe Platinum Limited provided 20 (twenty) more women with Clothing & Textile Training in 2023.

This training programme was initiated because the Company wanted to develop youth with the focus on female candidates. Requests were received from many women in the communities for non-mining related training that would enable them to either establish their own sewing company or become fashion designers. Another benefit would be the empowerment of these candidates who would eventually be able design and supply PPE to the mines within the area.

Once again, Nkwe Platinum Limited empowered women from Mine communities around the Zijin Garatau Platinum Mine with specialised skills in clothing & textiles training, offering a promising pathway beyond traditional mining roles.

Another twelve (12) candidates in total, from Maandagshoek, Garatau, De Kom and Hoepakrantz, had embarked on a unique training journey focused on fashion design. This programme aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue careers in clothing fashion and design.

Recognising the diverse talents and interests within the community, Nkwe Platinum Limited had tailored this initiative to cater to women who may not be suited for heavy-duty underground mining tasks. Instead, the programme offered avenues for entrepreneurship by encouraging trainees to establish their own businesses in clothing fashion and designs. Furthermore, participants will have opportunities to contribute to the mining industry through the design and manufacturing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), aligning with mining safety standards.

The decision to pursue fashion design training reflects the participants’ aspirations for meaningful and sustainable livelihoods within the mining sector. By diversifying skills and fostering entrepreneurship, Nkwe Platinum not only enriches local talent but also promotes economic resilience and community development.

This initiative underscores Nkwe Platinum Limited’s commitment to inclusivity and empowerment, aiming to create a supportive environment where individuals can thrive and contribute meaningfully to both the mining industry and broader economic landscape.

Nkwe Platinum Limited worked with a local SETA-accredited service provider to train 12 members from the Garatouw community with the essential skills needed to successfully research, launch and manage new business ventures. The training programme began on the 3^rd April 2023 and was implemented over the course of 15 working days. The participants, which comprised of members of the women’s, youth, and strategic forums, received Entrepreneurship NQFL 4 Certificates after the training.

Through the same local service provider, the Company also provided entrepreneurship training for the 9 (nine) members of the Ratau Business Forum. The forum, consisting of members from the Garatouw community who oversee business-to-business networking and information-sharing for the community, attended the 15 working-day long from the 12^th of June 2023. Each member will receive Entrepreneurship NQFL 4 Certificate after the completion of this programme.

“It has been amazing!”

Nkwe Platinum approached me with the opportunity to fund my university bursary in 2017. At the time, I had just gotten into university but was struggling to pay for the very high fees that came with it. Nkwe Platinum put me on their bursary program and from there, they paid for my tuition fees and my books. They even included an allowance for meals! They really helped in taking the financial burden off my shoulders, allowing me to focus on what was important to me: my passion for an education.

Nkwe Platinum would check in on me every year and make sure that payments were made on time. This continued for 4 years and in 2021, I graduated with a BSc degree in Diagnostic Radiography. I will eventually work at Nkwe Platinum to assist with taking X-rays for their mining staff.

I am so grateful for the opportunity that Nkwe Platinum has provided me and I look forward to a bright future in my career with the company.

“Don’t be afraid to give away short-term conveniences for long-term stability”

Having graduated from high school in Burgersfort with 4 distinctions, I went to study at a university in Johannesburg. Although the university paid for a portion of my studies under their bursary program, the annual fees were very expensive. My family were struggling to pay for the rest of the study fees. I approached Nkwe Platinum during the 2nd year of my studies to apply for their bursary programme. Nkwe Platinum paid for my 2^nd and 3^rd year university fees in their entirety. They also provided a book allowance and a living expense allowance which helped with the pressures that came with studying. The allowances enabled me get access to the latest studying materials and allowed me to move closer to the campus. Previously, it took me two hours to get to classes! I feel one can focus more on their studies and engage more with campus culture when one is more financially secure. Not only did Nkwe Platinum provide financial support, but also provided emotional support. Their team would check in on me every semester to tend to my needs which was a very different but welcome experience compared to other bursary programmes.

I graduated cum laude with 26 distinctions in 2020, obtaining a BCom degree in Economics. 

Because of the support that Nkwe Platinum provided, I am now able to pursue my post-graduate studies. I am so thankful to Nkwe Platinum for giving me this opportunity to improve my life and follow my dreams!

I am thrilled to share with you the latest chapter in my academic journey. As a proud graduate of Eduvos (formerly known as Pearson Institute of Higher Education), I recently obtained my Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, specialising in Software Engineering. Hailing from the vibrant community of Burgersfort Maandasgshoek Molongoane Village, this achievement resonates deeply, symbolising not just personal growth but also a commitment to the advancement of technology in my community and beyond.

My journey in higher education has been enriched by the Zijin Garatau Platinum Mine, a beacon of support and opportunity. Beyond the fees and textbooks, their bursary scheme has been instrumental in my success, providing not only financial assistance but also invaluable emotional and mental support. The burden of financial strain was lifted, allowing me to focus wholeheartedly on my studies and personal growth. For this, I express profound gratitude to Eduvos and all those involved in their bursary programme.

While one chapter closes with my recent graduation, another one eagerly awaits. Currently, I am pursuing my Bachelor of Science Honours in Information Technology, specialising in Data Science, at Eduvos Midrand campus. This new phase is not just about furthering my education but also about seizing the opportunity to delve deeper into the realm of data science, a field poised to reshape industries and societies worldwide.

Looking to the future, my aspirations as a software engineer and data scientist are clear: to dominate the industry and leave an indelible footprint. I envision pioneering solutions that address pressing societal challenges, harnessing the power of technology to improve lives and foster progress. Furthermore, I am committed to giving back to my community, sharing knowledge, mentorship, and resources to empower the next generation of technologists and innovators.

In closing, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all who have supported me on this journey – family, friends, educators, and sponsors. Together, let us embrace the opportunities ahead, driven by a shared vision of a brighter, more technologically advanced future.

I am from Maandagshoek Sehlaku Village. I pursued a Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BEng Tech) in Extraction Metallurgy at the University of Johannesburg.

Zijin Garatau Platinum Mine came through for me at a critical time in my life. With only an acceptance letter from UJ and no clear plan on how I was going to pay for my fees. I was awarded the bursary on merit and with the advantage that I am from Maandagshoek, doorstep community to Zijin.

The Mine assisted me by providing a bursary that covered my tuition fees, study materials, accommodation and living expenses. The financial support allowed me to focus entirely on my studies without the burden of financial stress. From my first year in 2019, the Mine has been my steadfast support. Not only did they provide financial assistance; they also offered valuable mentorship, guiding me through my academic journey.

Special thanks to Zamani, Martha and Masego. Your personal support and encouragement have been invaluable. May you continue to support and inspire those who come after me.

I am deeply grateful to the Mine for their generous assistance and unwavering support. They believed in me and their commitment to my success has been truly life-changing. I cannot express how much their support has meant to me, and I will always be thankful for the opportunity they have provided.

Looking ahead, I plan to further my studies in Engineering and make significant contributions to the mining and metallurgical industry. I also aspire to take on leadership roles and mentor future generations just as the Mine did with me.