The chiefs and people in catchment communities of Asante Gold Chirano Limited are urging companies that operate within the area to emulate social intervention programmes carried out by the mine to accelerate local development.
Dwantoahene of the Sefwi Wiawso Traditional Council and chief of Sefwi Ahwiaa, Nana Kofi Nkoah II, said opportunities being offered by Asante Gold Chirano are transforming lives in the area and improving the living conditions of local communities.
Speaking at a graduation ceremony for twelve students who received scholarships from the mine to study at Kumasi Methodist Technical and Vocational Institute, Nana Nkoah II noted the mine’s commitment to local education over the years.
He said Asante Gold Chirano has over the years offered these youth training opportunities which have benefitted and lifted many families out of poverty.
He cited an example of himself – unable to continue his education in the 1970s due to lack of support, and noted that some of his community members in similar situations have been able to advance with support from the mine’s scholarship programmes.
The three-year training programme offered to students equipped beneficiaries with skills in automobile engineering, welding and fabrication, building and construction, mechanical engineering and electrical engineering.
General Manager-Asante Gold Chirano Limited, Stephen Asante Yamoah – also speaking at the ceremony, reiterated that the company firmly believes in the transformative power of education.
He said true prosperity arises not only from material wealth but also nurturing the potential within our youth. “By investing in education, we pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future,” he added.
He advised 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 be the foundation for your future.”
The General Manager added that these students are now part of the collective effort to provide skills training for local youth, making them employable.
He said last year 50 youths received truck-driving training, with many of them currently employed by business partners of the mine.
Mr. Yamoah also 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 expressed gratitude to the faculty and staff of Kumasi Methodist Technical and Vocational Institute, community leaders and parents for their support.
