Collins Sefa Gold Fields Ghana Graduates 15 Youth from Community Apprenticeship Programme
Fifteen young men and women from the Tarkwa Mine host communities have graduated from the Community Youth Apprenticeship Training (CYAT) Programme, an initiative by the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation (GFGF) designed to equip the youth with employable skills in domestic and industrial electrification.
Gold Fields Reaffirms Commitment to Skills Development
Dr. Catherine Kuupol Kuutor, Mine Manager of Gold Fields Ghana Limited – Tarkwa Mine, said the programme reflects the company’s commitment to creating long-term value beyond mining.
She highlighted that the Foundation has invested over USD 4.81 million in technical and livelihood training initiatives, impacting more than 264 young people through programmes such as Heavy-Duty Equipment Operation, Precision Welding, Engineering Apprenticeships, Graduate Training, and several community-based trade programmes including dressmaking, hairdressing, welding, and auto-electricals.
CYAT Programme: Structured Electrification Training for Youth
Introduced in 2024, the CYAT Programme expands the Foundation’s investment in youth skills development. Delivered in partnership with the Mac Partners Training Institute in Obuasi, the pilot cohort trained 15 participants — 10 males and 5 females — through a blend of classroom instruction and practical skills development.
As part of the programme, trainees completed a three-month industrial attachment with Alqu Rubber and Engineering Solutions, where they gained hands-on industry experience. They also received entrepreneurship training to support both employment and self-employment opportunities.
Over USD 106k Invested; All Trainees Pass NVTI Exams
Dr. Kuupol Kuutor revealed that USD 106,730.25 was invested in implementing the programme.
All participants passed the National Vocational and Training Institute (NVTI) examinations, and each graduate received a full set of professional electrical tools during the ceremony.
She congratulated the trainees for their dedication and urged employers to consider them for available opportunities, describing them as “ready and capable talents.”
Energy Commission Applauds Gold Fields’ Youth Empowerment Efforts
The Deputy Executive Secretary of the Energy Commission, Chris Yalley, praised the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation for its continued investment in youth development and community transformation.
He emphasized that the graduation represents the beginning of new opportunities for the trainees, who now possess practical skills needed in Ghana’s industrial and energy sectors.
Mr. Yalley highlighted the national importance of skills acquisition as Ghana advances toward a modern, technology-driven energy economy. He described the apprenticeship programme as a vital initiative bridging the country’s technical skills gap.
He encouraged the graduates to pursue excellence and serve as ambassadors of the programme, noting that their success will inspire others in their communities.
Building Resilient Communities Through Skills Training
Dr. Kuupol Kuutor expressed gratitude to partners, facilitators, and families for their support. She said the CYAT Programme marks a major stride toward strengthening livelihoods and building resilient communities.
“Together, we are shaping a future where young people can flourish, innovate and contribute meaningfully to national development,” she said.
