Community programs help train the talent of tomorrow

Technical students in Zambia are getting hands-on experience with the same equipment that is used in the mining industry.

In Zambia’s mineral-rich Copperbelt province, Sandvik Mining and Rock Solutions makes substantial investments in the education of future talent. The donation of equipment to technical training institutions in the Copperbelt area is an important part of the company’s community involvement, which also involves the allocation of human resources and on-site training.

The four local, government-owned institutions benefiting from the donation offer courses in line with Sandvik’s area of operation, but they lack equipment required for the students’ training. The goal is to enrich the institutional course portfolios and reduce the gap between what the institution’s graduates can do and industry’s expectations. Besides donating equipment, Sandvik offers training opportunities that enable the students to get hands-on experience with the actual gear used in the industry.

Community programs present employment opportunities

“This also raises the level of employment opportunities for the students, especially in heavy equipment repairs with mining companies,” says Mutale Chilufya, Marketing Specialist at Sandvik Central Africa.

Student visit at the Sandvik Central Africa facility through the community programs.The Technical and Vocational Teachers’ College (TVTC) in Kitwe is one institution that received donated equipment – engines along with hydraulic pumps, cylinders and pressure gauges.

“We are very grateful for the support Sandvik has rendered to this college with the donation of equipment, and we particularly appreciate the opportunity given to us to expose our degree students to hydraulic practicals at Sandvik’s workshops in Kitwe,” says M. Malanga, HOD – Design and Technology Teacher Education at the TVTC’s Management Board.

Students regularly visit the Sandvik facilities in Kitwe. In the workshop the Sandvik training team demonstrates how the equipment works in relation to the students’ focus of study so they will be able to apply the knowledge obtained in class.

“Most of our technicians are former graduates of these institutions, and we believe that engaging in community involvement has a significant positive impact on the society while it also secures the growth of a future generation of skilled technicians and leaders in the industry,” says Mutale Chilufya.

Morden Munsaka, Sandvik Human Resource Business Partner Central Africa, hopes that the equipment donated to the selected training institutions will be used in the most valuable manner and enhance learning by giving the students hands-on experience

“As part of our sustainability goals, playing our part in the local community that we operate in is an important commitment for Sandvik. We look forward to future collaboration to enable everyday improvement of the students,” says Morden Munsaka.