AngloGold Ashanti’s Obuasi Mine on Tuesday held the graduation ceremony for the third cohort of its Skills Development and Certification Programme at Anyinam Lodge.
One hundred young people from communities around the mine completed six months of training in welding and fabrication, general electricals, auto electricals, electronics, auto mechanics, and plumbing. Each graduate received formal certification from the National Vocational Training Institute and the Energy Commission, together with a starter toolkit including Ingco-branded toolboxes and equipment to support immediate entry into the workforce or self-employment.
In his welcome address, Community Relations Manager of the Mine, Edmund Oduro Agyei thanked participants and stakeholders for their support and explained that the programme was developed in response to findings from the company’s 10-Year Socio-Economic Development Plan. A skills gap analysis had shown that many local artisans possessed practical ability but lacked formal certification, business management training, and recognised safety qualifications—barriers that restricted access to contracts and limited income growth.
Mr Oduro told the graduates: “Six months ago you began this training. Your commitment and consistency have been evident throughout. When opportunity meets effort, change follows.”
He reiterated that AngloGold Ashanti’s purpose in mining includes empowering people and strengthening host communities. He placed particular emphasis on safety, noting that work carried out without proper training and certification endangered not only the artisan but also clients and the wider public.
The programme addressed four main areas: technical competency leading to official certification, business development and entrepreneurship training, compliance with safety and regulatory standards, and the provision of start-up toolkits.
Mr Oduro cited examples of alumni from earlier cohorts who have built successful enterprises. Emmanuel Owusu of Binsere, now CEO of Horse Electricals, employs approximately 20 people. Michael Atuobi Boateng of Mensakrom, CEO of MEP Electricals, has similarly expanded his operations and created employment for around 20 individuals.
Among the graduates, Sherifatu Hussein from Anwiam in Obuasi East was named overall best student.
“I feel empowered now. I am ready for any job opportunity from the mine or elsewhere”, she told Obuasi Today.
The Odikro of Anwiam was present to support participants from his community. With 14 women among the 100 graduates, Sherifatu’s performance highlights increasing participation by young women in technical trades.
The event at Anyinam Lodge included the presentation of certificates, distribution of toolkits, group photographs, and brief remarks from dignitaries. The atmosphere reflected both achievement and optimism for the future contribution of the graduates to Obuasi’s economy.
This is the third time AngloGold Ashanti Obuasi Mine has run the programme, each cycle adding more certified artisans to the local labour market.