Some 250 National Service Personnel in the Obuasi Municipality and Obuasi East District have received entrepreneurship training.

The training falls under the Enterprise and Skills Development Centre (ESDC) of AngloGold Ashanti, Obuasi Mine.

It is part of the mine's Socio-Economic Development Plan aimed at supporting host communities, especially the youth with best business practices and strong entrepreneurial skills.

The mine, though committed to employing most of its staff in the catchment, is overwhelmed by the youthful population.

The training is expected to create opportunities for some of the unemployed youth.

Sustainability Manager, Emmanuel Baidoo, explains "The training of the national service personnel in entrepreneurship is one of the ways we aim to support the growth of our economy".

He added “we believe that giving the youth the skills they need to start and grow their businesses will positively impact their lives, and the communities, while strengthening the SME sector."

Some participants appreciated the initiative, noting the practical insight.

"I was unsure about my ability to run a business. I had many ideas but didn't know how to turn them into reality. The training changed all of that. It provided practical advice and guidance on how to start and grow a business, including market research, customer service, financial management and I was able to develop a business plan that I am proud of," said Prisca Oduro, a National Service person from Sanso community in Obuasi.