One hundred youth comprising 14 females and 86 males mainly from the catchment areas of AngloGold Ashanti (AGA)Obuasi Mine have graduated after six months Skills Development and Certification Programme organised by the company.It was under AGA’s Artisan Apprenticeship to Entrepreneur initiative.
The participants received skill training in welding and fabrication, general electricals, auto electricals, electronics, auto mechanics and plumbing.Mr. Edmund Oduro Agyei, Community Relations Manager of AGA said without Certification from recognized bodies like the National Vocational Training Institute (NVTI) and the Energy Commission, many artisans cannot access competitive contracts or formal employment opportunities hence the upgrading course.
He mentioned that one Emmanuel Owusu, CEO of Horse Electricals and Michael Atuobi Boateng also CEO of MEP Electricals who upgraded their skills in the mine are now big time entrepreneurs and have employed many people.
To the graduants he said, “let the experiences of these successful alumni guide you. Remember we are not only graduating you, but also equipping you with the tools and resources needed to start and run your businesses successfully.”
Madam Sarah Konadu in charge of Human Resources at SMET Mining and Engineering expressed her appreciation to AGA for giving her company the opportunity to serve as a training partner in organizing the Skills Development and Certification Programme.
To AGA, she said, “by investing in skills training, you are not only strengthening your operations, but also transforming lives, families and communities.”
To the graduants, she stated, “your discipline and willingness towards learning have brought you this milestone. As you step out with your certification, remember that skill alone is not enough, let discipline guide your attitude and let safety be your priority.”
Mr Kwabena Yeboah, an Assistant Director at the Obuasi East Municipal Assembly thanked AGA for its effort to give various skills to the youth of Obuasi to improve their living standards.
He stated that AGA has all along been kind enough to shoulder most of the problems in Obuasi, which primarily should have been done by the Assembly and called for continued collaboration between the two bodies.
The Odikro of Kwabrafoso, in Obuasi, who is also the Gyaasehene of Adansi Wioso, Nana Takyi Mensah, defended the selection process to get participants for the Certification Programme, stating that no artisan outside Adansi and Amansie was part of the team.
Twenty six-year-old Sherifatu Hussein from Anwiam was adjudged the Overall Best Artisan.
From Frederick Danso Abeam, Obuasi
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