Asante Gold Chirano Limited has invested over GH₡850,000 in tertiary education scholarships since 2021, supporting 138 students from its host communities, the General Manager, Stephen Asante Yamoah, has said.
The latest round of scholarships, awarded during a ceremony held by the mine, in the Western North Region, saw 31 students receive financial support to pursue university education, as part of a programme run by the Chirano Sefwiman Foundation (CSF) and the mining firm.
“This support has already produced 33 graduates, doctors, engineers, nurses, and teachers, who are now contributing to national development,” said Mr. Yamoah, at the company’s 5th annual Scholarship Awards Ceremony.
He stressed the importance of a fair and transparent selection process, explaining that each recipient had undergone rigorous assessments, including aptitude tests, interviews, and background checks, ensuring that only the most deserving candidates were selected and that every community had an equal opportunity to benefit.
He also reaffirmed the company’s broader commitment to education, referencing the recent rehabilitation of the Anyinasie Basic School by the Finance Department.
“It was extremely satisfying to see the pupils now studying in classrooms fit for purpose, and I look forward to seeing some of them progress in their education and one day benefit from this very scholarship,” he remarked.
The awards aim to support academically gifted but financially disadvantaged students from 20 host communities around the Chirano Gold mine.
Since its inception, the CSF and GM Scholarships have collectively provided educational opportunities to 138 brilliant but needy students, fulfilling the foundation’s vision of removing financial barriers and nurturing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers.
Traditional leaders, local officials, and parents gathered in support of the recipients, whose selection followed a competitive process that included aptitude tests, interviews, and background checks.
“This scholarship is not a handout; it is an investment in your future and the development of our communities,” said Kwaku Sarfo Duah, Chairman of the Chirano Sefwiman Foundation.
The Municipal Chief Executive for Sefwi Wiawso, Dominic Gyasi, also speaking at the ceremony, commended the programme for bridging inequality in access to higher education. “Partnerships between companies and local authorities are vital to drive sustainable development,” he said.
Nana Kofi Nkoah II, Chief of Sefwi Ahwiaa, described the scholarship as transformative for families in the region. He urged beneficiaries to remain focused, “uphold the values of hard work,” and give back to their communities.
He also called for continued collaboration between the foundation, the company, and community leaders to sustain and expand the program’s reach.
In addition to the scholarship programme, the company has recently refurbished a six-unit classroom block at Anyinasie Basic School, another step in what Asante described as its “broader commitment to education.”
