The Digital Mining Incubator (DMI) launched by diversified engineering company Siemens at the Wits Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct, in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, is a cocreation space focused on developing mining engineering competence.
The incubator is aimed at skilling young individuals who have an interest in the mining sector, as well as disadvantaged individuals interested in actively participating in the future of mining.
Through mentors from Wits, Tshimologong and Siemens, students are provided the necessary tools and skills to effectively transform and develop the South African mining sector.
Digitalisation in the mining industry goes beyond automation, allowing for new approaches to business processes and creates real opportunities to merge the digital and physical worlds. The value of data coupled with machine learning, artificial intelligence and additive manufacturing offers South Africa a remarkable opportunity to create smart mines of the future.
Siemens CEO for Southern and Eastern Africa Sabine Dall’Omo says failing to position the mining sector in South Africa within discussions about the Fourth Industrial Revolution means remaining stagnant on the path towards industrialisation.
“The DMI will provide a dedicated platform for developing innovative solutions to some of our mining industry’s greatest challenges, including health and safety, environmental protection and improved productivity,” says Wits University’s Joburg Centre for Software Engineering director and founder of the Tshimologong Precinct, Professor Barry Dwolatzky.