Metallurgists are mentioned amongst at least 140 professions in South Africa’s critical skills list and young Victor Munyangane hopes to add to the country’s talent pool. After completing his BTech in 2017, Victor, a Metallurgy Intern at Khanye, moved to Bronkhorstspruit to live with his uncle. Bronkhorstspruit is surrounded by mines, making it a perfect setting for someone who is looking to build a career in the industry.

For Victor, the opportunity came when he was offered a two-year internship at Khanye in July 2022. Victor developed an interest in mining at a young age. Interning at Khanye has exposed him to coal mining operations from extraction to processing. During his time at Khanye, Victor has worked in the laboratory, the filter press and at the pit. The experience has been helpful, especially when it comes to understanding how the analytical process works.

“I want to know more about minerals. Fortunately, there is a laboratory onsite and the coal is mined and processed in the same place. Other mines have to deliver their coal elsewhere for it to be processed,” says Victor. The minerals industry depends on Metallurgists, to analyse and develop processes to extract metal from ore in order for it to be market ready. Victor’s interests do not end with coal, he looks forward to exploring other minerals and precious metals like gold or platinum.