Technological advancements in computer science and related fields continue to transform the modern workplace. Traditional career paths are evolving rapidly with the rise of autonomous systems, robotics, and Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly within industrial and production environments.
In response to these shifts, Kumba Iron Ore, in partnership with WomHub, launched two initiatives aimed at equipping young people in its host communities with future-ready digital skills. The goal of these programmes is to develop local talent and prepare them for an evolving and dynamic labour market.
Championed by Kumba’s Women in Mining structure, the Technovation Camp and Digital Skills Programmes focus on empowering high school girls and young women from Kathu to explore opportunities within technology and engineering fields.
The four-day camp targeted learners in Gr.9 to Gr.11 who have an interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers. The interactive camp introduced participants to coding, robotics and future technologies, whilst encouraging collaboration and problem-solving through sessions with young Kumba engineers.
Learners also gained valuable insights into what STEM and engineering professionals do in their day-to-day roles.
Programmes are pathways
The Digital Skills Training Programme, designed for women aged 18 to 21, is a 12-month skills development initiative focused on cybersecurity and AI. It provides participants with the opportunity to earn the globally recognised Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification, positioning them competitively for future employment within and beyond the mining sector.
Together, these initiatives reflect Kumba Iron Ore’s commitment to bridging opportunity and innovation, whilst ensuring young women in its host communities are empowered with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to thrive in a tech-driven future.
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“Through Kumba’s Women in Mining structure we are turning our purpose of reimagining mining to improve people’s lives into tangible impact by empowering young women in our host communities with future-fit digital skills”, says Kutlwano Takadi, principal: Transformation and Regulatory, Kumba Women in Mining Lead.
“These programmes are more than learning platforms – they are pathways that prepare the next generation of women who will lead in a tech-driven mining industry.”
