About the project
The North-West University (NWU) Council mandated the Mining and Mining Engineering Task Team (MMETT) to steer the establishing a School of Mines and Mining Engineering that strengthens the university’s regional and national contribution to mining education, research, and sustainable industrial development. The initiative aligns with NWU’s strategy for industry-embedded, regionally responsive engineering education and the university’s strategic goals of expanding STEM enrolments, enhancing research relevance and impact, and ensuring financial sustainability through synergistic income treams.
The project is conceived as a phased, financially prudent initiative that balances academic ambition with market testing and partnership growth. It aims to roll out professional engineering and related programmes that contribute to the economic growth of Rustenburg and the mining industry, while meeting the NWU strategic goals alluded to above. This report provides the necessary context for NWU Council to consider the approval of the 2026–2028 budget for Phase 1 implementation.
Phased Implementation Framework
The phased approach allows for measured growth, continuous evaluation, and the alignment of resources with demonstrated demand.
The pilot will also expand the Ikateleng outreach programme to strengthen the mathematics- and science-ready learner pipeline for future STEM enrolments.
Phase 1 (2026–2028):
Establishing a presence in Rustenburg
Phase 1 represents a low-risk pilot to establish NWU’s presence and brand in Rustenburg. The focus is on leased facilities that will host short learning programmes (SLPs), postgraduate block classes, and applied research through the Centre for Sustainable Mining (CSM). A small administrative team, comprising a Project Coordinator and Administrative Officer, will manage operations, stakeholder engagement, and coordination across NWU functions. The facility will operate under the NWU School of Mines brand while being financially and administratively housed within the CSM under the directorship of Dr Sihe Nhleko (Faculty of Engineering).
Phase 2 (by 2029):
Pre-campus expansion
Formal academic programmes in mining science, mining-related professional engineering, and an NQF Level 5 Industrial Automation qualification are under currently development in parallel with Phase 1. Phase 2 will build on pilot momentum by introducing block-release professional engineering programmes—most notably the Professional Master of Engineering (Pr MEng)—delivered under Potchefstroom’s ECSA-accredited framework. The Rustenburg site will evolve into a hybrid teaching and research hub for postgraduate and industry learners while assessing the viability of future undergraduate offerings.
Phase 3 (from 2032):
Full campus development
For the purposes of CHE and ECSA approval, the Potchefstroom Campus will initially remain the registered site of delivery. Subject to Council approval, proven student demand, and stable partnerships, Phase 3 envisions the formal registration of a Rustenburg site of delivery—potentially on Site C, a 21.5-hectare property zoned for educational use. The long-term vision includes purpose-built laboratories, lecture theatres, student residences, and applied-research facilities dedicated to sustainable and intelligent mining.