Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA)

About the Mining Qualifications Authority

The Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) is the Sector Education and Training Authority for the mining and minerals sector. The Mine Health and Safety Act of 1996 first set it up, mainly to train mineworkers in health and safety. In March 2000, the Minister of Labour designated it as the SETA for the sector under the Skills Development Act. Its offices are at 7 Anerley Road in Parktown, Johannesburg.

The MQA helps mines and related businesses find and grow the skills they need. Its work covers safety, productivity and employment equity. In addition, it funds learnerships, bursaries, internships, apprenticeships and skills programmes. As a result, a learner can enter the industry through a technical or a professional route.

How the MQA supports students

The MQA bursary scheme aims to grow the number of people who choose mining careers. It focuses on scarce and critical skills, such as engineering, environmental studies, geology and mine surveying. Published descriptions say that Grade 12 learners and students at universities, universities of technology and TVET colleges can qualify. Learners who do well in mathematics and science receive special attention.

Past bursary calls have covered tuition, accommodation, meals and a book allowance. Recipients have usually had to work in the South African mining and minerals sector for as many years as the sponsorship lasted. The details change between intakes, so read each advert carefully. The MQA also funds learnerships that mining houses host. Many of these ask for Grade 10 to Grade 12, depending on the programme. Technical streams often want mathematics and physical science. Candidates usually need a medical certificate of fitness issued under mine health and safety rules, and most learnerships target young adults.

What to know before applying

Start by deciding which route suits you. Bursaries suit students who are heading to higher education. Learnerships suit those who want to learn on the job. Because learnerships often sit with individual mines, watch the career pages of mining companies as well as the MQA's own notices. Prepare your documents early. Typical requests include a certified ID copy, your latest results, proof of registration or acceptance, and a motivation letter. Be honest about any other funding you receive, since most schemes limit double funding. In addition, keep your documents in a single folder so that you can respond quickly if the MQA or a mining company asks for more information.

The MQA's website has been unavailable at times, so exact dates and criteria for the current year are not confirmed here. Therefore, check with the MQA directly through its official channels, or ask your university funding office, before you apply. Finally, remember that genuine funders do not charge application fees. Report anyone who asks you to pay.