Oulu Mining School (OMS) is an important partner in the EGT-TWINN project, working to boost the research capabilities of the Geological Survey of Estonia and support Estonia's shift to green energy. In the heart of Finland's educational landscape, the Oulu Mining School has established itself as a key player in mining education and research. As part of the Faculty of Technology at the University of Oulu, OMS integrates education and research in geosciences, geophysics, mining engineering, and mineral processing into a cohesive entity. This integration aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of mining operations throughout the life cycle of a mine and to develop their ability to communicate effectively within the industry.

A Decade of Development

Since 2014, OMS has seen significant growth. Initially focused on teaching geology and geophysics, the school expanded in 2015 to include mineral processing and mining engineering, alongside developing a modern research center. In 2018, OMS merged with the Faculty of Technology and launched international master’s programs, including the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master (EMJM) program, PROMISE, on 2022 in collaboration with universities from Leoben, Zagreb, and Federico Santa Maria.

The period from 2022 to 2024 marked an increase in research projects and student enrollment, reinforcing OMS's growing influence. Now, as OMS steps into its second decade, it focuses on stabilizing operations while continuing to expand its educational and research capabilities.

Focusing on Sustainable Mining Education

At the core of OMS's mission are two main programs: Geosciences and Mining Engineering and Mineral Processing. These programs continue to attract students, with 27 admissions from 224 applications for the Geosciences program, 32 from 243 for Mining and Minerals Processing, and 22 from 290 for the EMJM PROMISE program.

Significance of Research and Education

The significance of research and education in mining and exploration has increased in recent years due to the opening of new mines and the heightened production of minerals and metals. OMS plays a critical role in this landscape by strengthening the University of Oulu’s expertise in natural resources and sustainability. By gathering core disciplines of the mining value chain—geosciences, geophysics, mining engineering, and mineral processing—OMS provides a comprehensive approach to mining education and research.

Leading Research and Innovation

Research is a cornerstone of OMS's contributions to the mining sector. The school focuses on mineral systems and exploration, geophysics, mining methods, processing, and the Arctic environment. Despite challenges like retirements and resource constraints, OMS continues to advance environmentally friendly exploration methods, energy-efficient mining techniques, and sustainable processing practices.

Research related to Arctic mining is a key focus, reflecting the unique challenges and opportunities in this region. OMS collaborates closely with Nordic and other international universities to address these challenges, ensuring a multidisciplinary approach in their curriculum that encompasses geosciences, geophysics, mining technology, and mineral processing.

Ongoing research projects include SEMACRET, focusing on sustainable exploration for critical raw materials, and EXCEED, which aims at cost-effective extraction routes for critical metals. The GAP Mine.io project is creating a digital mining ecosystem, while EMJM PROMISE and other international collaborations enhance OMS's global research footprint. 

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Join OMS for their anniversary celebrations and upcoming MINEARC webinar

Oulu Mining Summit and Gala Week:  The annual Oulu Mining Summit, a key event since 2016, will be held from September 16-20, 2024. This year’s theme, "Impact, Networking, and Training," focuses on growing operations in Eastern and Northern Finland's extractive sectors. The Gala Week includes seminars, open-door events, and the Summit and Gala Dinner. This event is a prime opportunity for networking and knowledge exchange. Register here.

2nd MINEARC Webinar: Mining and Mineral Processing: Following the Summit, OMS will host the second MINEARC webinar on October 24-25, focusing on advancements and challenges in mining and mineral processing. This online event brings together industry stakeholders, researchers, and technologists to discuss themes such as advanced mining technologies, deep mining, rock fragmentation, and recycling. REGISTER HERE to join this discussion.