Mine Evaluation

1. Introduction

Mine evaluation is a core discipline in the mining industry that determines the economic viability, technical feasibility, and strategic potential of mineral deposits. It integrates geology, engineering, economics, financial modelling, risk assessment, and regulatory considerations to support key decisions across the mine life cycle—from exploration to development and closure.

This course provides participants with a rigorous understanding of the principles, methodologies, and tools required to conduct comprehensive mine evaluations. The programme emphasizes real-world case studies, data-driven analysis, modern evaluation techniques, and best-practice reporting standards to prepare professionals for roles in mineral resource assessment and mining project development.

 

2. Training Objective

The course aims to:

• Strengthen participants’ understanding of mine evaluation concepts and processes.
• Equip learners with knowledge in mineral resource estimation, classification, and reporting.
• Enhance skills in technical assessment, economic modelling, and feasibility evaluation.
• Enable participants to analyze risks, uncertainties, and sensitivities in mining projects.
• Build competence in using evaluation software, tools, and analytical techniques.
• Provide the capacity to prepare professional evaluation reports aligned with codes and standards.
• Improve decision-making and strategic planning capabilities within mining operations.

 

3. Targeted Group

This training is designed for:

• Mining engineers and mineral evaluators
• Geologists and geological database officers
• Mine planners, project managers, and technical supervisors
• Mineral economists and financial analysts in mining
• Regulatory officers and government mining inspectors
• Consultants and mining investment professionals
• Researchers, academics, and postgraduate students
• Graduate engineers seeking foundational to advanced evaluation skills

 

4. Course Duration

Total Duration: 12 Modules

Delivery options:

• 12-day intensive workshop, or
• 6-week modular programme, or
• 3-month blended certificate programme (with projects and assessments)

 

5. Training Methodology

FOTADE utilizes a robust and practical training methodology that includes:

• Lectures and expert presentations
• Hands-on exercises with sample datasets
• Case studies from global mining operations
• Interactive group discussions and problem-solving
• Use of evaluation software and modelling tools
• Scenario analysis and real-life simulations
• Field-based examples, assignments, and quizzes
• Capstone evaluation project and assessment

 

6. Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Mine Evaluation

• Evaluation concepts, definitions, and objectives
• Mine life cycle and evaluation stages

Module 2: Geological Data and Resource Modelling

• Data collection, validation, and geological modelling fundamentals
• Ore body structures and grade variability

Module 3: Mineral Resource Estimation Techniques

• Block modelling, geostatistics, and kriging
• Sample analysis, grade interpolation methods

Module 4: Mineral Resource Classification and Reporting Codes

• JORC, NI 43-101, SAMREC standards
• Competent/Qualified person responsibilities

Module 5: Ore Reserve Estimation and Mineability Assessment

• Converting resources to reserves
• Pit optimization and underground reserve estimation

Module 6: Mining Method Selection and Technical Evaluation

• Methods for surface and underground mining
• Technical factors influencing method selection

Module 7: Capital and Operating Cost Estimation

• CAPEX/OPEX breakdown
• Estimating mining, processing, labour, and infrastructure costs

Module 8: Economic Evaluation and Financial Modelling

• Cash flow analysis, NPV, IRR, payback period
• Discount rates, taxation, royalties, and depreciation

Module 9: Risk and Sensitivity Analysis

• Price volatility, grade uncertainty, operational risks
• Sensitivity tests and probabilistic evaluations

Module 10: Environmental and Social Considerations in Evaluation

• Environmental impact costs
• Social licensing and stakeholder engagement

Module 11: Feasibility Studies and Project Reporting

• Scoping, pre-feasibility, and full feasibility reporting
• Structure of professional evaluation reports

Module 12: Capstone Project – Comprehensive Mine Evaluation

• Participants conduct a full mine evaluation using real or simulated data
• Includes resource estimation, economic modelling, and risk analysis
• Presentation and professional assessment

 

7. Expected Outcomes

Upon completing this programme, participants will be able to:

• Understand and apply mine evaluation principles from geological assessment to economic modelling.
• Execute mineral resource estimation using standard modelling techniques.
• Classify resources and reserves according to international reporting codes.
• Prepare reliable cost estimates and perform robust financial evaluations.
• Conduct risk assessments and sensitivity analyses for project viability.
• Evaluate environmental and social impacts associated with mining projects.
• Develop professional evaluation reports and feasibility assessments.
• Demonstrate improved analytical, technical, and strategic decision-making capacity.

 

8. Certificate of Completion

Participants who complete all modules, assignments, and the capstone project will receive a:

Certificate of Completion in Mine Evaluation

Issued by:

FOTADE Training, Research and Resource Development Centre

This certificate confirms that the bearer has achieved the competence required for professional mine evaluation and mineral resource assessment.