Exxaro Resources Limited is one of South Africa’s leading mining and renewable energy companies. Established in 2006 after the merger of Kumba Resources Limited and Eyesizwe Coal, Exxaro has since become a key player in the South African economy, known for its diversified operations, commitment to sustainability, and focus on community development. Let’s dive into the various aspects that Exxaro is best known for.
1. Top Coal Producer in South Africa
Exxaro is renowned as one of South Africa’s largest coal producers. The company is among the top five coal producers in the country, with operations spanning across multiple coalfields in Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal. This makes it a major player in the South African energy sector, as coal remains a critical component of the country’s energy production.
2. Pioneering in Renewable Energy
Exxaro has increasingly turned its attention toward renewable energy solutions, demonstrating its commitment to the future of sustainable energy. The company is making significant strides in integrating solar, wind, and other clean energy sources into its portfolio, contributing to South Africa’s transition to a low-carbon economy. Exxaro’s focus on renewable energy is a reflection of its goal to become carbon neutral by 2050, positioning itself as a forward-thinking company in the energy sector.
3. Diverse Mineral Investments
While Exxaro is best known for its coal production, the company also holds investments in a variety of other minerals, including iron ore, zinc, and base metals. This diversified portfolio allows Exxaro to navigate the fluctuations of the global commodity market and ensures its long-term sustainability by tapping into multiple resources.
4. Commitment to Sustainability and Carbon Neutrality
Exxaro is a company that prioritizes sustainability. One of its most significant goals is to become carbon neutral by 2050. This ambition aligns with the global push for greener, more sustainable practices. Exxaro is actively participating in initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint, including investing in renewable energy and improving its mining practices to minimize environmental impact.
5. Focus on Health and Safety
Exxaro places a strong emphasis on the health and safety of its employees. The company has introduced advanced measures to improve medical surveillance, including clinical tests and DNA analysis, to ensure the well-being of its workers. Exxaro’s commitment to health and safety reflects its understanding that the mining industry requires responsible practices to protect those who contribute to its success.
6. Empowering Communities through Development
Exxaro’s efforts extend beyond its business operations, as the company is committed to contributing to the development of the communities in which it operates. Through its Mine Community Development Program, Exxaro supports local communities by providing educational opportunities, healthcare, and infrastructure development. This social responsibility is a key part of Exxaro’s ethos, ensuring that its growth positively impacts the lives of many South Africans.
Overview of Public Universities in South Africa
Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.
University of Pretoria
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
- Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.
University of Cape Town
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
- Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.
Stellenbosch University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
- Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.
University of the Witwatersrand
- Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
- Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.
University of Johannesburg
- Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
- Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.
University of the Free State
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.
University of Venda
- Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
- Application Period: Usually from May to September.
University of Fort Hare
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
- Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.
University of the Western Cape
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
- Application Period: Generally from May to September.
North-West University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
- Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.
Rhodes University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
- Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.
Nelson Mandela University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
- Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.
University of Limpopo
- Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
- Application Period: From April to September.
University of Zululand
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
- Application Period: Usually between April and November.
Central University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
- Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.
Vaal University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
- Application Period: Typically from May to September.
Walter Sisulu University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
- Application Period: From April to September.
This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.