Financial challenges remain a major barrier to education for many young people in the Amansie South and West Districts, often forcing promising students from less privileged backgrounds to abandon their tertiary education dreams.
Twenty-four-year-old Emmanuel Aboagye from Manso Nkensu, who aspired to study Engineering at the university level, faced a major setback when his parents and relatives, who were meant to support him, passed away just as he was planning his future. Emmanuel’s story mirrors those of many other youths in the Amansie West and South Districts whose educational aspirations are threatened by financial limitations.
To address this pressing concern, Asanko Gold Ghana Limited, through its five-year Social and Economic Development Plan (SEDEP), has launched a scholarship scheme for students from its host communities. The initiative annually selects fifteen (15) students through a rigorous and transparent process managed by a Scholarship Selection Committee, which includes representatives from the District Education Directorates, local Assemblies, Divisional Chiefs, and officials from Asanko Gold.
The scholarship covers tuition, residential fees, and other approved academic charges, providing beneficiaries with up to GH₵10,000 per year, totalling between GH₵30,000 and GH₵40,000 over their full programme. The Committee will also monitor students’ academic progress, while beneficiaries will have opportunities for internships and national service with Asanko Gold and its contractors. Ongoing interaction with Asanko’s Environment and Sustainability team ensures long-term support for their academic and career growth.
Speaking at the Scholarship Programme, Ahmed Mohadini-Yahaya, General Manager of Asanko Gold Ghana Limited, said the initiative is designed not only to help students start their tertiary education but also to see them complete their studies and pursue meaningful careers.
“We hope these young people will return as engineers, teachers, health professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders within their communities,” he said. “Our long-term goal is to equip young people from the host communities through education, enabling them to secure roles at the mine and eventually hold key positions at Asanko Gold Ghana Limited.”
Beneficiaries like Emmanuel Aboagye expressed immense gratitude for the support. “I secured the scholarship to pursue my dream course at the university. I am very happy and extremely grateful to Asanko Gold Ghana for this opportunity. Without this scholarship, I am not sure I would have been able to pursue my dream of becoming a mechatronic engineer. I thank God and Asanko Gold for this life-changing opportunity,” he said.
Parents and community chiefs also commended Asanko Gold Ghana Limited for the initiative and urged beneficiaries to take full advantage of the scholarship to achieve their educational and career aspirations.
Source: Oyerepafmonline.com
