The Centre for Sustainable Mining (CSM) at North-West University is committed to responsible and environmentally conscious mining through impactful education, research, partnerships, and consulting services.
At CSM, we integrate four key pillars—Teaching & Learning, Cutting-Edge Research, Collaboration, and Consulting—to shape the future of sustainable mining in South Africa and beyond.

Teaching and Learning
Equipping the next generation of engineers and practitioners with future-focused mining education.
- Postgraduate Diploma in Industrial Engineering with Sustainability
- Postgraduate Diploma in Industrial Engineering with Sustainable Mining
- Short courses tailored to current and emerging needs in the mining sector
Cutting-edge Research
Driving innovation through data, AI, and technology-enabled mining solutions.
- AI for condition monitoring
- AI for traffic and transport optimisation
- AI for control of mineral processing
- IoT for field data collection (private 5G network)
- Drone and AI for survey and mapping
- Drone and AI for exploration
- Renewable energy-powered machines
Collaboration
Partnering with global leaders to advance sustainable mining practices.
- Copperbelt University, Zambia
- University of Arizona, USA
- AfriMat
- Harmony Gold
- Mandela Mining Precinct
- North Carolina State University, USA
- Wabtec
Consulting
Bridging academic expertise with industry challenges through tailored consulting.
- Custom project support and implementation
- Strategic advice based on real-time research and data
- Sustainability assessments and systems improvement
Contact Us
For more information or assistance, feel free to reach out to our team.

Director
Dr. Sihe Nhleko
Sihe.Nhleko@nwu.ac.za
Building N1, Room 157, Potchefstroom

Financial administrator & coordinator
Ms. Suzette Snyman
Suzette.Snyman@nwu.ac.za
Building N1, Room G32, Potchefstroom