Abstract

For a long time since the Industrial revolution in the late 17th century, mining has been one the most influential factors that has shaped our modern cities and at one time, even the transport network in many nations was influenced by the consideration of how bulk mining material had to be moved around. In Africa many cities thrived because of being the centre of mining activities or at least being indirectly involved as financial centres that transacted on behalf of mine settlements. In many cases social functions such as sports, education and entertainment, their thriving was closely linked to the fortunes of the mines. What does the future hold as high value ore gets less accessible and on the other hand, fluctuating market conditions continue to weigh heavily against industries that require dip pocket investment with long term goals where gears cannot be easily shifted to respond to quick changes. This scenario also impacts student career in this industry.