Registrations Now Open for Mintek-SCi 2025 – A Call to Young Researchers Across South Africa
Mintek is pleased to announce that registrations are now open for the second annual Mintek-SCi (Science Convention for Innovators), a national platform for emerging researchers in the minerals sector.
Aimed at young researchers under the age of 35, Mintek-SCi 2025 invites postgraduate students, early-career professionals, and innovators to join a growing community that is shaping the future of mineral science and engineering. Under the theme “The Next Frontier: Emerging Scientists Driving Change,” this year’s programme includes high-quality oral and poster presentations as well as the newly introduced Grad Hackathon, which has drawn participation from leading universities across South Africa.
Delegates will engage with key themes such as Critical Minerals, Energy, Emerging Technology, Sustainability & Circular Economy, and Unlocking Resources. The symposium also features a strong speaker programme, with thought leaders drawn from government, academia, and industry. These include Mintek CEO Dr Molefi Motuku, NRF-SAASTA Managing Director Dr Mamoeletsi Mosia, as well as experts from institutions such as MIT, SUNY Polytechnic, Ex Mente, Multotec and others—ensuring a robust and cross-sectoral dialogue that reflects the evolving needs of the minerals industry.
Participants will also have exclusive access to the Grad Hackathon presentations, where interdisciplinary teams of graduates present solutions to real-world challenges including AI-driven mineral processing optimisation, sustainable water usage in mining, alternative energy for smelting, real-time equipment monitoring, and cost-effective pothole repair.
Commenting on this year’s event, Dr Molefi Motuku noted:
“The 2025 Mintek-SCi promises to be more than just an opportunity for networking, knowledge exchange, and inspiration. Mintek has long served as a training ground for leading metallurgists, chemical engineers, and technologists. With this symposium and hackathon, we continue to invest in the innovation ecosystem of South Africa.”
All eligible young researchers are encouraged to register now and be part of this premier gathering of next-generation scientific talent in the minerals sector.
Register here.