Some fifty-three youth have been enrolled to begin a four-year apprenticeship programme under Newmont Golden Ridge Limited’s Akyem Project, at New Abirem in the Birim North District in the Eastern region. The matriculates (Fifty-one males and two females) who were drawn from nine communities within the district are to be trained in various aspects of mining to enable them gain employment at Newmont. Addressing a gathering at the matriculation ceremony at New Abirem, the External Affairs Manager of Newmont; Akyem Project, Marfo Oduro Kwarteng said the apprenticeship programme was aimed at equipping the youth in the area with skills that will enable them gain employment in the operations of the company. He added that it will also boost Newmont’s quest to enhance relations with the communities in honouring its social responsibilities. The Member of Parliament for New Abirem, Esther Obeng Dapaah called on the management of Newmont to involve more women in the apprenticeship programme in subsequent enrollments. She also pledged to offer more scholarships to females in the area to change the gender disparity among graduates. The fifty-three apprentices are expected to be trained in various aspects of mining operations including Mine Maintenance, Mechanical and Electrical instrumentation. Since being granted a moratorium in January last year, Newmont has been undertaking other activities such as compensation for affected farmers, resettlement and livelihood programmes and influx mitigation projects. Newmont has also begun preparation for the construction of a mine. Story by Benjamin Henaku, New Abirem