ICU TRAINS AND CERTIFIES ARTISANAL AND SMALL-SCALE MINERS
The Information and Communications University, in partnership with the Zambia Research and Development Centre, has certified artisanal and small-scale miners after completing specialised training to promote safer, more sustainable, and compliant mining practices.
The certification ceremony marked the culmination of a programme designed to professionalise artisanal and small-scale mining in line with Government efforts to formalise the sector and enhance its contribution to national development.
The training covered key areas including rock and mineral identification, mining operations and equipment, occupational health and safety, environmental protection, licensing and regulatory compliance, as well as gold exploration techniques.
Speaking at the ceremony, Dean of the School of Engineering and chief trainer, Mr. Danny Musenge (PhD), said the programme was structured to equip miners with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for responsible and lawful mining operations.
Mr. Musenge noted that the initiative supports Government’s agenda to promote safer and more sustainable mining practices while improving productivity among artisanal and small-scale miners.
ZRDC supported the programme by providing scholarships covering 60 percent of the tuition fees, a move aimed at reducing financial barriers and increasing access to skills development for miners. Officials said the support represents a strategic investment in capacity building and the strengthening of standards within the sector.
Graduates of the programme expressed satisfaction with the training, stating that it had equipped them with the knowledge and skills needed to mine responsibly, protect the environment, and operate within the legal framework.
ICU and ZRDC reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration and capacity-building initiatives, with a focus on strengthening the role of artisanal and small-scale mining in Zambia’s economic growth and sustainable development.