The annual Mintek-Sci (Science Convention for Innovators) brought together over 400 participants. A symposium aimed at young researchers under 35, both from Mintek and other institutions showcased their latest innovations across diverse themes.
Held on 1 and 2 October 2025 at Mintek Randburg campus, the event was supported by the National Research Foundation (NRF) and Implats, with participation from both academia and industry, including international institutions such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
The platform connects emerging researchers with leaders to shape the future of South Africa's mineral and metallurgical sectors.
Attracting over 400 participants and 360 attendees, Mintek-SCi 2025 united a diverse range of voices from universities, research institutions and companies committed to advancing the frontiers of science and technology. The programme, featuring the Disruptive Research Roundtable, the Graduate Hackathon and the Mintek-SCi Symposium, reflected Mintek's enduring mission to nurture young talent and foster innovation-driven growth.
This year's symposium saw a marked increase in engagement, demonstrating Mintek-SCi's growing recognition as an essential platform where emerging researchers gain visibility and build connections with the wider scientific community. Discussions encompassed critical themes such as energy, critical minerals, emerging technologies, sustainability and resource unlocking - areas vital to the sector's ongoing evolution.
High-level engagements at the event demonstrated the strengthening collaboration between academia and industry. Distinguished speakers, including Dr Mamoeletsi Mosia, managing director of the National Research Foundation's SAASTA, and Dr Johan Zietsman, CEO of Ex Mente, shared valuable insights on the role of science in shaping South Africa's industrial future.
Their contributions emphasised the importance of forging strong partnerships that bridge knowledge and practice to equip young scientists to address the real-world challenges of a changing minerals industry.
A key highlight of this year's programme was the introduction of the Mintek Graduate Hackathon, which brought together students from leading universities such as the University of the Witwatersrand, the University of Johannesburg, the University of Cape Town, the University of Pretoria, the Vaal University of Technology, University of Venda and the University of South Africa.
Participants collaborated to develop innovative solutions to industry challenges ranging from artificial intelligence applications in mineral processing to sustainable water use in mining and energy-efficient smelting. Supported by mentors from Mintek and industry partners, the Hackathon showcased the practical impact of innovation when young minds can apply their knowledge to real-world problems.
The Disruptive Research Roundtable, held on the opening day under the theme "Reigniting Disruptive Research to Drive Innovation in Minerals and Metallurgy," gathered influential voices from both industry and academia. Panellists including Tebogo Kale, CEO of Gravitas Minerals, alongside Mintek CEO Dr Molefi Motuku, explored how new ideas, collaboration and technology can transform the research landscape. The session reinforced the value of embracing disruption as a driver of progress, helping South Africa maintain its global competitiveness amid rapid technological change.
Reflecting on the event, Motuku described Mintek-SCi as more than a research forum, it is a dynamic ecosystem of innovation and possibility. "What makes this platform unique is that it is not just another event on the calendar. It is alive. It is a living ecosystem where fresh ideas thrive, curiosity is celebrated, and young researchers under the age of 35 can show us the future through their work. At Mintek, we see this as a direct reflection of our mission: to nurture the scientists, engineers, and innovators who will propel our industry and economy forward."
He added that Mintek-SCi serves as a launchpad for careers, a hub for collaboration and a catalyst for discovery, embodying Mintek's ongoing investment in science and technology's future in South Africa.