Attention: SANIRE Members

Strata Control and Rock Engineering Examinations

The Minerals Council Exams Committee consisting of SANIRE (South African National Institute of Rock Engineering, IMSSA (Institute of Mine Surveyors of South Africa), MVSSA (Mine Ventilation Society of South Africa) and MINCOSA (Minerals Council of South Africa) held a meeting on 1 June 2020 to discuss the way forward with the upcoming examinations. It was decided by a majority vote that the exams committee will cancel the July 2020 COM theory examinations due to safety and logistical concerns relating to COVID-19 pandemic following a thorough risk assessment conducted by MINCOSA. The next theory examinations will be held in November 2020. Please refer to the communication document issued by the Minerals Council.

The outstanding SCO Practical examinations have been placed on hold until mining operations are able to cater for numerous candidates. We will continue to keep members updated in this regard, however this decision is based on the safety of all, keeping in mind the limitations of the mining operations. No date can be issued at this stage for resumption.

In terms of the Rock Engineering Practical Examination, SANIRE proposed to the MINCOSA that we continue with the examinations as planned in July 2020, which was accepted on the basis that they are held “virtually” / online. When COVID 19 was declared a pandemic, SANIRE Council immediately started investigating the virtual options. The Rock Engineering Practical Examinations will continue as planned. Arrangements and communication with both examiners and candidates will be made accordingly in due course.

Should you have any queries in this regard, please do not hesitate to contact Adam Cooper at adamco@ivanplats.com

We as SANIRE Council continue to wish you all the best in the tough times ahead.

Yours sincerely,
SANIRE Education Portfolio (A Cooper)
SANIRE President (PM Couto)