By Neville Judd
As the global mining industry continues its digital transformation, access to real-world technology and practical skills has never been more important for students entering the workforce. In Papua New Guinea, where mining plays a vital role in economic development, Hexagon is strengthening its commitment to education through a new partnership with the Papua New Guinea University of Technology (PNGUoT or UNITECH).
This latest initiative reflects Hexagon’s broader focus on equipping future mining professionals with the tools, knowledge, and confidence they need to succeed in increasingly complex and technology-driven operations.
A new partnership with PNG University of Technology
Professor Ora Renagi, Thomas Dlabik, Joseph Tera and Dr. Aezeden Mohamed
Hexagon representatives recently met with Professor Ora Renagi, Vice Chancellor of PNG University of Technology, and Dr Aezeden Mohamed, School of Mechanical Engineering, to formally present a new partnership centred on Hexagon’s MinePlan solution.
Under the agreement, Hexagon will provide complimentary MinePlan licences to UNITECH, enabling undergraduate students to gain hands-on experience with software widely used in real mining operations. By integrating MinePlan into coursework, students can move beyond theory and develop practical skills in mine evaluation, planning, and design.
This initiative is designed to help bridge the gap between academic learning and industry expectations, ensuring graduates are better prepared to contribute from day one.
Building capability through train-the-trainer programmes
In addition to student licences, Hexagon will deliver five days of train-the-trainer sessions, hosted by experienced MinePlan experts. These sessions are designed to give UNITECH’s professors and lecturers in-depth exposure to MinePlan technology and real-world operational workflows.
The programme will support Geoscience and Engineering training streams. Each stream will be delivered twice per year, ensuring ongoing knowledge transfer and continuity as curricula evolve. By empowering educators with practical expertise and industry context, Hexagon is helping universities deliver more relevant, applied training, ultimately benefiting students and the wider mining sector.
Why MinePlan matters for future mining professionals
MinePlan is used globally to support mine evaluation, planning, and design across the mining lifecycle. Early exposure to tools like MinePlan helps students understand how data, modelling, and planning decisions directly impact productivity, safety, and sustainability.
For students, this means:
- Familiarity with industry-standard planning workflows
- Practical experience using professional mining software
- A stronger foundation for careers in mining engineering, geology, and planning
For universities, it enables teaching that aligns more closely with real operational environments.
Part of a broader commitment to mining education
The PNG University of Technology partnership is the latest in a series of Hexagon initiatives focused on developing mining talent worldwide.
Dave Goddard was appointed to the SME Foundation Board of Trustees in 2025.
This commitment is also reflected at a leadership level. Within the past year, Hexagon’s Mining President, Dave Goddard, was appointed to the SME Foundation Board of Trustees, an organisation dedicated to inspiring and supporting the next generation of mining professionals. The appointment reinforces Hexagon’s long-term focus on education, capability building, and the sustainable growth of the mining industry.
Investing in the future of mining
Across regions and disciplines, Hexagon is taking a consistent, long-term approach to developing the miners of tomorrow. From providing MinePlan access and educator training at PNG University of Technology, to enabling hands-on underground technology development with Montana Technological University, and advancing next-generation talent pathways through partnerships with Maaden and leading universities in Saudi Arabia, Hexagon is aligning education with real operational needs.
These initiatives reflect a shared belief that the mine of the future will be built not only on advanced technology, but on people equipped with the skills, experience, and confidence to apply it safely and sustainably.
To learn more about MinePlan and how Hexagon supports digital transformation across the mining value chain, visit hexagon.com/mining.