AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) has recently held a matriculation ceremony for 100 artisans who are now part of their Skills Development and Certification Program at the Obuasi Mine. This momentous event follows the successful graduation of more than 80 artisans from the previous year’s training initiative. The program is strategically designed to enhance the skill sets of local artisans while equipping them with formal certification aimed at improving their employability and professional status in the competitive job market. Central to this initiative is the focus on practical and relevant training that aligns with the demands of the industry, thereby increasing the artisans’ chances of securing steady employment or pursuing entrepreneurial ventures.
Daniel Arthur Bentum, the Economic Development Superintendent of AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine, emphasizes that the program aims to furnish artisans with vital skills across various trade fields, including welding and fabrication, plumbing, auto mechanics, auto electricals, and general electrical skills. This comprehensive approach ensures that artisans acquire not just theoretical knowledge but also hands-on experience necessary for their development. The Skills Development and Certification Program (SDCP) aligns with the Socioeconomic Development Plan (SEDP) developed by AngloGold Ashanti, which spans a decade. By prioritizing skill training and certification, the program enhances artisans’ competitive edge and contributes to elevating their income levels.
The design of this program arose in response to a thorough needs analysis conducted among the local artisan community in Obuasi. Findings indicated that many artisans lacked the formal certification required to validate their existing skills, which hindered their ability to compete for contracts and adversely affected their livelihood. Bentum pointed out that this lack of certification not only limits individual opportunities but also constrains the overall economic development of the community. Consequently, the program aims to bridge this gap by providing the necessary certifications that can pave the way for artisans to engage in formal employment or contract opportunities.
Moreover, it was noted that many artisans do not apply effective business management practices, which further contributes to their low income and limited commercial demand for their services. By integrating business management training alongside technical skills education, the SDCP aims to empower artisans with the comprehensive knowledge and skills required to manage their businesses efficiently. This dual focus on both technical proficiency and business acumen is vital to fostering sustainable income growth for participants, thus improving their economic standing and enriching their communities.
Following the completion of the training, artisans will be enrolled to sit for professional examinations to earn National Vocational Training Institute (NVTI) and Energy Commission certificates. This formal certification process is crucial, as it enhances their employability and positions them favorably within the job market. The partnership between AngloGold Ashanti and SMET Mining and Engineering Training further solidifies the training structure, ensuring that artisans receive quality education that meets industry standards. By facilitating access to certification, the program not only benefits individual artisans but also contributes positively to the wider community by propelling economic development.
Ultimately, the Skills Development and Certification Program stands as a proactive initiative by AngloGold Ashanti aimed at uplifting local artisans through enhanced skills training and certification. The anticipated outcomes of this program include improved livelihoods, sustained entrepreneurship, and a more competitive artisan community in Obuasi. Collectively, these efforts contribute to the holistic development of the region, reflecting a commitment to social responsibility and economic empowerment as key components of AngloGold Ashanti’s operational framework.
