A new 6-unit classroom block has been inaugurated for a local Roman Catholic basic school in Afrisipakrom, near Duayaw Nkwanta, in the Ahafo region. This initiative, funded by the Newmont Ahafo Development Foundation (NADeF) at a cost of GHS925,899.00, includes six fully furnished 40-seater classrooms, a library, an office, and a staff common room. The establishment of this educational facility represents a significant advancement in the local education landscape, demonstrating a strong commitment to improving the quality of education available to the community. The project aims to create a conducive learning environment that not only meets the needs of students but also aligns with broader educational goals aimed at inclusivity.
During the inauguration, Prof. Yaw Fosu Kusi, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of NADeF, highlighted the Foundation’s commitment to various areas of support including human resource development, economic empowerment, and cultural heritage. He emphasized that NADeF’s collaboration with the Afrisipakrom community over the years has been pivotal in achieving its vision of fostering prosperity and self-reliance. The Foundation aims to contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 4(a), which focuses on building and upgrading education facilities that cater to the needs of all children, including those with disabilities, to create an effective learning environment.
The Acting Senior Manager of Sustainability at Newmont Ahafo Mine, Abena Acheampomaa Ankoma, also addressed the gathering, providing insights into NADeF’s broader educational initiatives. She mentioned that the Foundation has awarded scholarships to over 10,000 community members at various educational levels—from basic to tertiary. This scholarship initiative underscores NADeF’s commitment to educational access and empowerment, with an eye towards enhancing the overall educational framework within the region.
In addition to scholarships, NADeF has invested significantly in constructing nurse training colleges and various educational infrastructures across its ten host communities. This strategic investment aims to address the pressing educational needs of these communities, laying the groundwork for both educational and health sector advancements. The efforts by NADeF to bolster educational infrastructure and opportunities reflect a holistic approach to community development, as they seek to ensure comprehensive support in improving educational outcomes.
Other notable projects funded by NADeF in Afrisipakrom include the construction of a 5-unit teachers’ quarters, the establishment of a community library, and the re-roofing of the R/C Junior High School. Additionally, the extension of electricity to parts of the town highlights NADeF’s commitment to improving not just educational facilities, but also the overall living conditions within the community, thereby promoting a supportive environment for both teachers and students.
Established in 2008, NADeF serves as the principal driver of Newmont Ghana’s sustainable corporate social responsibility initiatives in its host communities. Through various projects and programs, the Foundation aims to foster growth and development, ensuring that the communities connected to its mining operations benefit significantly. With the inauguration of the new classroom block and the continuous support offered through scholarships and infrastructural improvements, NADeF exemplifies a commitment to developing human capital, fostering self-reliance, and progressing towards a brighter future for the Afrisipakrom community and beyond.
