The Freiberg University of Mining Technology (TU Bergakademie Freiberg) in Freiberg, Germany is one of the world's oldest mining universities, dating back to 1765. The university has a rich history of pioneering contributions to mining and metallurgy education. In 2021, a group of Freiberg students began the process of creating a SME student chapter and in October 2023, that worked paid off with official approval for the Student Chapter.

At a university with history dating to 1765, Khan Azuhchum Clovis has the distinction of being the inaugural president of the SME Student Chapter FG.

“SME involvement is vital for the program's future because it fosters industry-academia collaboration, brings real-world expertise to students, supports research and innovation, provides networking and career opportunities, and addresses sustainability concerns in the mining sector, ensuring that the program remains relevant and globally competitive,” Clovis said.

The institution was established in 1765, during the by Prince Francis Xavier of Saxony. Its main purpose was the education of highly skilled miners and scientists in fields connected to mining and metallurgy. There had developed a need for mining, as an industry to regenerate Saxony's economy, since Saxony had been defeated in the Seven Years' War.

The university now works on the development of state-of-the-art technologies and processes for a responsible use of the finite resources of the earth. In doing so, the university also faces the ecological challenges of the 21st century. It currently has 27 professors who teach and research in these fields. Currently, 894 students are enrolled in three bachelor's programs, nine master's programs and two diploma programs at the faculty.

“Becoming a student chapter means an opportunity for personal growth, learning, networking, and community engagement,” Clovis said. “It provides a platform for students to deepen their knowledge and passion in a specific field while fostering connections with peers who share similar interests and goals.”