Doubling its research output over the past two years has been a key factor in the improved global ranking of the School of Mining Engineering at the University of the Witwatersrand.
In its most recent Biennial Review, the school also reported that its growing research output between 2023 and 2024 has gained it institutional recognition for its specialised research groups. The report highlighted that the school is placed 11th in the 2025 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings for Mineral and Mining Engineering – just one position shy of the Top 10 and the highest ranking ever achieved by a mining school in Africa.
“Our rising research output is fundamental to maintaining and improving our global ranking,” said Head of School Dr Paseka Leeuw. “World-class mining schools distinguish themselves through the relevance, impact and visibility of their research.”
Dr Leeuw said the school’s academics are producing work that speaks directly to industry needs, including areas such as mineral resource governance, mine optimisation, digital mining and rock engineering. He highlighted that its strong academic programme and expanding cadre of doctoral-level staff – combined with its cutting-edge curriculum aligned to Mining 4.0 and 5.0 principles – also contributed to this standing.
Impact of research groups
One of the major developments during the review period has been the strengthening of the school’s signature research clusters. While the Mineral Resources Governance Research Group (MRGRG) entered its fourth year of operation, the Mine Planning and Optimisation Research Group (MPORG) achieved official recognition by the University Research and Innovation Committee.
“These groups are designed to promote interdisciplinary collaboration and deepen engagement with mining companies, research institutions and regulators,” he said. “Their research themes resonate strongly with the mining sector’s priorities, from responsible resource governance and ESG compliance to digital-driven productivity improvements.”
Partnerships with mining companies such as Sibanye-Stillwater and African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) reinforce the relevance of the school’s research to real operational challenges in the sector, he said, highlighting how this collaborative model has fed the school’s contribution to the mining sector.
“Our partnerships ensure that our postgraduate students and academics work on real problems with real impact,” said Dr Leeuw. “When students’ research feeds directly into solving industry challenges, everybody benefits – mines themselves, students and the broader academic community.”
Research excellence
Reflecting the high standard of research expertise, five staff members maintained their NRF researcher status throughout 2023 and 2024, and multiple MSc and PhD candidates graduated during the review cycle. He said the school continued to work hard to build academic capacity.
“Our strategy has been to strengthen our staff profile by attracting and developing scholars who have both industry experience and research depth,” said Dr Leeuw. “In 2023 and 2024, we welcomed new PhD-qualified academics and supported several staff members in completing their doctorates; this investment is directly linked to the increase in our research output.”
Looking ahead, he expressed confidence that the Wits School of Mining Engineering was on track to break into the global Top 10 in the QS ranking.
“We have the research momentum, the academic depth, the industry partnerships and the digital infrastructure to get there,” he concluded. “Our next focus is to expand our international research collaborations, increase postgraduate enrolment and continue building capacity among early-career academics. If we maintain this trajectory, breaking into the Top 10 is certainly achievable.”
