AngloGold Ashanti’s Obuasi Mine has recently provided employment opportunities to 14 individuals out of 28 youth who successfully completed a rigorous two-to-three-year training program in ‘Winder Engine Driving’.
The initiative, which selected all 28 trainees from communities in Obuasi, forms part of AngloGold Ashanti’s Youth Apprenticeship program aimed at enhancing human capital development in its host communities.
Among the trainees were seven women who underwent intensive training in operating and maintaining winder engines, crucial for the smooth and reliable transportation of humans and materials within the mine. The training was conducted under the guidance of experienced trainers.
Speaking at a ceremony to commemorate the graduation of the beneficiaries, Ing. Eric Broni, Senior Manager of Engineering at AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine (AGA), explained the rationale behind the program.
He emphasized the need to address the gap in the field of Winder Engine Driving and provide opportunities for youth in Obuasi to acquire the necessary skills for the job market.
He expressed optimism that even if AngloGold cannot employ all the trainees, their acquired skills would be valuable for other mining companies.
The AngloGold Ashanti Youth Apprenticeship program, launched in 2019 as part of the company’s Social Management Plan, has trained over 300 youth so far. Ing. Broni urged the graduates to be ambassadors of the program, emphasizing that their expertise would enhance mining operations’ efficiency, leading to increased productivity and profitability.
Edmond Oduro Agyei, Community Relations Manager at AGA Obuasi Mine, reiterated the company’s commitment to providing more opportunities for youth in their host communities through skills development and employment.
He emphasized the link between human capital development and economic growth, affirming the company’s dedication to supporting youth development through various training programmes.
Nana Bosompim Kitikyie Apenteng II, the Kontihene of Dompoase, commended AngloGold Ashanti for its steadfast commitment to youth development in Obuasi.
He encouraged the graduates to utilize their acquired skills and contribute to creating a conducive environment for AngloGold Ashanti’s operations.
Mrs. Priscilla Edmundson, one of the trainee graduates and the first female Winder Engine Driver at AngloGold Ashanti, shared her positive experience with the media, highlighting the training’s transformative impact on her life.
She encouraged more women to join the mining sector, emphasizing the abundance of opportunities available for women in the industry.
