JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) – Mineral Resources Minister Mosebenzi Zwane on Thursday called on mining companies to offer more bursaries to students in need.
Speaking at a housing project, launched by mining company Exxaro, Zwane appealed for the sector to contribute more toward funding education and skills development.
"As far as possible, bearing in mind the economic situation, it is important for mining companies to come to the party, not only for the long-term sustainability of the mining sector, but for the economy as a whole," he said.
This comes as students across the country are protesting against proposed university fee hikes and calling for free tertiary education.
Zwane welcomed the commitment by Exxaro CEO Sipho Nkosi to support the call to invest more in education. He also commended the company for its contribution to the Lephalale community, in Limpopo.
"The company has taken the first step towards assisting employees towards home ownership. It is encouraging to see the way the company is integrated into the community in which it operates."