Gold Fields Ghana, a leader in the mining industry, has recently enhanced its commitment to developing local talent within its operational communities by awarding engineering scholarships to 65 students from Tarkwa and its environs.
These scholarships, specifically aimed at fostering a new generation of mining engineers and managers, are part of a broader initiative to empower local residents to eventually manage the gold mines in their areas.
The scholarships were announced during a ceremony where Robert Siaw, the Regional Community Relations Manager of Gold Fields Ghana, highlighted the achievements of the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation’s scholarship program for the 2023/24 academic year.
Out of the 125 scholarships awarded, a significant majority—65%—are pursuing Engineering programs.
The remaining students are enrolled in various science-related fields such as Information Technology and Environmental Sciences, while 10% are studying humanities and business-related programs.
In his speech, Mr. Siaw emphasized the balanced gender distribution of the scholarships, noting that 54% of the recipients are female.
This aligns with Gold Fields Ghana’s commitment to promoting gender equality in education and the workforce.
The ceremony also touched upon the foundation’s recent initiatives, including a pilot project to establish a smart lab in one of the host communities, enhancing local education with modern technologies like robotics and artificial intelligence.
Abdel-Razak Yakubu, the Executive Secretary of the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation, shared further insights into the foundation’s contributions.
He revealed that the foundation has allocated US$88,212.52 for this academic year to cover school fees, accommodation, and other academic necessities for the beneficiaries.
Over the years, the foundation has supported 2,736 students from its host communities, with 498 currently benefiting from ongoing educational programs.
Mr. Yakubu also highlighted the foundation’s broader impact on education and skill development in the region, with a total investment surpassing $100 million in the host communities of the Tarkwa and Damang Mines.
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About $36 million of this investment has been directed towards educational and training programs, including the Graduate Training Program and various apprenticeships in heavy-duty equipment and precision welding.
The commitment of Gold Fields Ghana extends beyond financial support; it aims to integrate beneficiaries into community development actively.
Mr. Yakubu urged the scholarship recipients to engage with their communities, particularly during vacations, and participate in mentorship programs with mine managers.
This approach ensures that the investment in education translates into tangible benefits for the community, enhancing socio-economic development sustainably.
One of the scholarship beneficiaries, Henrietta Heyford Dontoh, currently studying electrical engineering at Takoradi Technical University, expressed her gratitude.
She recounted the financial challenges her family faced, which were alleviated by the foundation’s support, allowing her to focus on her studies without the burden of financial stress.
This year is particularly noteworthy as it marks the 20th anniversary of the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation, celebrating two decades of significant contributions to the communities around the Tarkwa and Damang mines.
The foundation’s ongoing commitment to education highlights its role not just as a corporate entity in the mining sector but as a pivotal community partner fostering long-term benefits for its host communities through strategic educational investments.
As Gold Fields Ghana continues to nurture local talent, it strengthens the infrastructure for a future where these communities can independently manage the mining activities that are so crucial to their economy.
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