Pandemic amplifies trend toward inclusive modernisation – South Africa

The Covid-19 pandemic has forced mining companies to “fundamentally rethink” the way they operate, says Minerals Council South Africa modernisation and safety senior executive Sietse van der Woude.

He adds that the shift to remote working and flexible working hours has highlighted humanity’s dependence on digital technologies, while demonstrating how technology can be leveraged to benefit society as a whole.

“Because of Covid-19, the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), which was already in play and is characterised by automation and digitalisation, is taking a quantum leap.