Nineteen young men and women from Newmont’s Ahafo South mine host communities have graduated from the company’s Scalable Apprenticeship Programme.

This three-year technical training, funded with GH¢5.5 million equips participants with skills for long-term employment in mining.

At a ceremony at Ahafo South Mine, Newmont officials, traditional authorities, community leaders, and family members celebrated the graduates.

Alex Kofi Annin, General Manager of the Ahafo South Mine, emphasized the program’s importance in building sustainable partnerships with local communities.

“Newmont introduced the Apprenticeship Training Programme in 2005 as a technical pipeline to ensure access to skilled and trained mechanical and electrical maintenance technicians,” he noted.

The program provides employable skills in mine maintenance for youth in 10 host communities.

The apprenticeship program is now in its fifth cycle, training apprentices in fixed-plant mechanical, electrical and instrumentation, and mobile maintenance.

Graduates received diplomas and proficiency certifications from the University of Mines and Technology (UMAT), Tarkwa, alongside a Newmont certificate.

Asamoah Boakye Joachim, a graduate in operational mine maintenance, shared his enthusiasm: “I did not have any prior experience in engineering until I joined the programme.”

He encouraged others to take the opportunity seriously, adding, “It would take them to the next level of their lives.”

Barima Twereku Ampem II, Omanhene of Ntotroso Traditional Area and chairman of the event praised Newmont for its commitment to the program and urged the company to consider fully absorbing all graduates into its workforce.

Additionally, 20 new trainees joined the three-year program, and 10 continuing students advanced to the second year.

With many graduates already securing job offers from Newmont, the future looks promising for these skilled young professionals, highlighting Newmont’s dedication to creating value through sustainable mining.

Background on the Programme

Newmont launched this program to provide employable skills in mining and maintenance for youth from Ahafo’s 10 host communities, including Kenyasi, Ntotroso, Gyedu, and others.

Since the program began, 197 trainees have participated, with 178 graduates and 88% employed by Newmont or its partners.

This initiative aligns with Newmont’s purpose of creating value and improving lives through responsible mining.