Mineral Resource Management (MRM)

1. Introduction

Mineral Resource Management (MRM) focuses on the effective governance, planning, development, and utilization of mineral resources to maximize value while ensuring sustainability, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. As global mining faces increased scrutiny, digital transformation, and evolving environmental standards, professionals require a robust understanding of the full mineral resource value chain—from exploration to mine closure.

This comprehensive training programme equips participants with modern principles and tools for resource evaluation, mine planning, strategic decision-making, risk management, and sustainable mineral development.

 

2. Training Objectives

This course aims to:

• Provide foundational and advanced knowledge of mineral resource governance.
• Equip learners with skills in resource estimation, classification, and reporting (JORC/NI 43-101/SAMREC).
• Strengthen competencies in strategic mine planning, optimization, and value chain integration.
• Enhance understanding of mine economics, project evaluation, and investment analysis.
• Improve knowledge of environmental stewardship and social responsibility in mining.
• Enable participants to use digital tools for resource modelling and data-driven decision-making.
• Build capacity to implement sustainable, efficient, and profitable mineral resource strategies.

 

3. Targeted Group

This programme is designed for:

• Mining engineers and mine planners
• Exploration geologists and resource geoscientists
• Mineral economists and project evaluators
• Mine managers and operations supervisors
• Environmental officers and sustainability practitioners
• Government regulators and policy officers
• Mining consultants and contractors
• Postgraduate students and early-career professionals in mining and geology

 

4. Course Duration

Total Duration: 16 Modules

Delivery Options:

• 16-day intensive professional programme, or
• 8-week structured course, or
• 4-month blended learning certificate with assessments and projects

Each module includes case studies, practical sessions, and group exercises.

 

5. Training Methodology

The training utilizes an applied, industry-oriented approach featuring:

• Expert-led lectures and discussions
• Hands-on exercises using geological and mining datasets
• Practical software sessions (e.g., Surpac, Datamine, Vulcan, Excel modelling)
• Case studies from real mining operations
• Group work, scenario analyses, and decision-making exercises
• Field-based examples and regulatory guidelines
• Assignments, quizzes, and modelling tasks
• Capstone applied MRM project

 

6. Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Mineral Resource Management (MRM)

• Overview, principles, and scope
• The mineral resource value chain

Module 2: Geological Data Collection and Quality Control (QA/QC)

• Sampling, logging, assays
• Data validation and quality assurance

Module 3: Resource Modelling and Estimation

• Block modelling
• Estimation methods (Kriging, IDW, etc.)

Module 4: Mineral Resource Classification and Reporting Codes

• JORC, NI 43-101, SAMREC
• Reporting standards and ethics

Module 5: Ore Reserve Conversion and Modifying Factors

• Geotechnical, mining, metallurgical, environmental factors
• Converting resources to reserves

Module 6: Strategic Mine Planning and Design

• Short-, medium-, and long-term planning
• Layout, scheduling, and optimization

Module 7: Mine Production Management

• Operational monitoring
• KPIs, productivity analysis

Module 8: Mine Economics and Project Evaluation

• Cash-flow modelling
• NPV, IRR, sensitivity and risk analysis

Module 9: Mineral Value Chain Optimization

• Integrated planning
• Logistics, beneficiation, processing value optimization

Module 10: Risk Management in Mining Operations

• Technical, financial, and operational risk identification
• Mitigation strategies

Module 11: Environmental Management in Mineral Resource Development

• Impact assessment, waste management, closure planning
• Compliance and sustainability

Module 12: Social Performance and Community Engagement

• Stakeholder management
• Corporate social responsibility (CSR)

Module 13: Mineral Resource Governance and Policy

• Regulatory frameworks
• Licensing, royalties, and compliance

Module 14: Digital Transformation in Mineral Resource Management

• Automation, AI/ML, and big data in mining
• Digital twins and real-time monitoring

Module 15: Supply Chain and Marketing of Mineral Products

• Mineral markets and pricing
• Transport and export logistics

Module 16: Capstone Project – Integrated Mineral Resource Management Study

• Apply MRM principles to a real or simulated mineral project
• Includes modelling, economic evaluation, and reporting
• Presentation and expert evaluation

 

7. Expected Outcomes

Participants who complete the programme will be able to:

• Understand and apply core MRM concepts to real mining situations.
• Conduct geological data analysis, resource estimation, and classification.
• Develop and evaluate mine plans and production strategies.
• Perform economic assessments of mineral projects using industry techniques.
• Manage mining risks and support sustainable mineral development.
• Apply digital and analytical tools for improved decision-making.
• Prepare professional technical reports compliant with global reporting codes.
• Contribute to efficient, profitable, and responsible mineral resource operations.

 

8. Certificate of Completion

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

Certificate of Completion in Mineral Resource Management (MRM)

Issued by:

FOTADE Training, Research and Resource Development Centre

This certificate signifies that the participant has achieved an advanced understanding and professional competence in Mineral Resource Management principles and applications.