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.

CSM Group

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.

Dr Sihe Nhleko


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

Ms Suzette Snyman


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