Asante Gold Chirano Limited has received commendation for its social intervention programs targeted at accelerating people development in the Mine’s catchment communities.
These interventions include skills training for the local youth to be employable.
Dwantoahene of the Sefwi Wiawso Traditional Council and Chief of Sefwi Ahwiaa, Nana Kofi Nkoah II, says opportunities being offered by Asante Gold Chirano are transforming lives in the area and improving the living conditions of local communities.
He was speaking at a graduation ceremony for 12 students who received scholarships from the Mine to study at the Kumasi Methodist Technical and Vocational Institute. The three-year training program equipped the beneficiaries with skills in automobile engineering, welding and fabrication, building and construction, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering.
According to Nana Nkoah, Asante Gold Chirano has over the years offered youth training opportunities, which have benefited and lifted many families out of poverty.
As someone who could not further his education in the 1970s due to lack of support, the chief is excited that some of his community members in similar situations have been able to advance with the support of the Mine’s scholarship programs.
He urged other companies operating in the area to emulate Asante Gold.
General Manager of Asante Gold Chirano Limited, Stephen Asante Yamoah, reiterated the company’s firm belief in the transformative power of education.
“True prosperity arises not only from material wealth but also from nurturing the potential within our youth. By investing in education, we pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future,” he said.
He advised the scholarship beneficiaries that completing their secondary education marks the beginning of a journey filled with endless possibilities. “The skills and knowledge you’ve acquired will serve as the foundation for your future,” said Mr. Yamoah.
The students are now part of the Mine’s collective effort to provide skills training for local youth, making them employable. Last year, 50 youth received truck driving training, and many of them are now gainfully employed by business partners of Asante Gold.
Mr Yamoah announced that the Chirano Sefwiman Scholarship Scheme, which was started in 2020, will see its first batch of students graduating from various tertiary institutions this year.
He appreciated the support of community members and other stakeholders in progressing with the social intervention prgrammes.