was primarily academic and learning oriented. This includes assistance with understanding complex concepts, supporting learning activities, and improving comprehension of technical material. Figure 6 – Number of Days Per Week Students Use AI This high level of digital fluency suggests that future workforce cohorts are entering the labour market with strong expectations regarding technological integration. Consequently, industries perceived as digitally stagnant may experience reduced attractiveness among technologically oriented graduates. 4.5 Shifts in Perspective Post Survey Following completion of the survey and exposure to standardized information regarding the mining industry, respondents reported a measurable shift in perception. 46.9% indicated that a career in mining became slightly more appealing, while 10.8% reported that it became much more appealing. In contrast, 29.4% reported no change in perception. Overall, more than half of respondents (57%) demonstrated increased interest following the informational intervention. While the survey design does not permit causal inference, the observed shift is consistent with the proposition that informational exposure may influence sectoral attractiveness. These findings suggest that at least part of the Pipeline Gap identified in this study may be associated with informational distance rather than fixed attitudinal resistance. The results further indicate that early-stage educational visibility could function as a leverage point for improving professional inflow. However, longitudinal and controlled research designs would be required to assess whether attitudinal shifts translate into sustained career decision changes. 101
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