AngloGold Ashanti’s Obuasi Mine, in collaboration with the Ashanti Green Initiative, has ushered in a new phase of community investment with the formal matriculation of 105 local apprentices into two flagship skills development programs.

The cohort joins the mine’s flagship Community Youth Apprenticeship Program (CYAP) and the newly launched Women in Industry Skills Empowerment (WISE) Program.

Since its inception, CYAP has trained over 500 young people in critical technical trades, with many graduates securing employment with AngloGold Ashanti, its contractors, or in industries across Ghana and beyond.

The programme now evolves to focus on advanced technical roles, with 58 new apprentices enrolling in specialised areas such as Shaft Technician, Winder Mechanical and Electrical, and Condition Monitoring.

A significant feature of this year’s intake is the newly launched WISE programme, which represents a bold step toward gender inclusion in the local mining ecosystem.

This is a dedicated initiative to boost female participation in technical fields.

Forty-two women will receive practical, hands-on training in Mobile Crane Rigging, Fabrication, Auto Mechanics, and Industrial Mechanics, culminating in nationally recognised certifications.

The original CYAP will concurrently focus on advanced technical roles, with 58 apprentices enrolling in specialised areas such as Shaft Technician, Winder Mechanical and Electrical, Machining, Motor Rewinding, and Condition Monitoring.

Ashanti Green Initiative emphasised the shared vision for sustainable development.

“Our vision is to actively support the Government's efforts to promote sustainable and responsible mining.”

Community Relations Manager for AngloGold Obuasi Mine, Edmund Oduro Agyei, described the event as historic, underscoring its transformative potential.

“This marks the beginning of new opportunities and sustainable empowerment for the youth across our host communities,” he stated.

The ceremony was attended by members and leaders of the community, including Nana Bremansu Antwi Kwenin, representing the Adansihene, who urged the trainees to optimise the opportunity. He encouraged them to diligently acquire the skills needed to become employable and industry-ready, contributing meaningfully to local and national economic growth.

The enhanced programmes underscore AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine and Ashanti Green Initiative’s joint commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth, building a skilled talent pipeline, and creating sustainable livelihoods within their host communities.