The Newmont Ahafo Development Foundation (NADeF) has invested GH¢42.8 million in educational scholarships for 14,307 beneficiaries from its ten host communities in the Ahafo Region since its establishment in 2008.
The scholarship programme has supported 7,862 tertiary students, 5,042 senior high school learners and 1,403 apprentices trained in varied vocational and technical skills. Beneficiaries were drawn from Kenyasi No.1, Kenyasi No.2, Ntotroso, Gyedu, Wamahinso, Yamfo, Susuanso, Afrisipakrom, Terchire and Adrobaa, as well as their adjoining settlements.
Speaking at the maiden homecoming of beneficiaries held at Ntotroso in the Asutifi South District, Prof. Yaw Ofosu-Kusi, Chairman, NADeF Board of Trustees said the Foundation views human capital development as a core pillar of its operations. He noted that the investment figures reflect a broader socio-economic impact on households and communities.
“The beneficiary statistics are not just mere figures but a representation of transformed families, empowered individuals and communities reimagining their potentials,” he said, describing the homecoming as a celebration of progress, shared dreams and resilience built over the past 17 years.
Prof. Ofosu-Kusi added that many beneficiaries are now serving in critical sectors of the economy, including healthcare, engineering, ICT, education and entrepreneurship. He said their influence extends beyond the Ahafo enclave, contributing to national productivity and supporting local economic activity.
The Executive Secretary of NADeF, Elizabeth Opoku-Darko, urged beneficiaries to contribute to the development of their communities after benefiting from the scheme. “It is imperative for you to look beyond yourselves in transforming society. Don’t forget the road to your homes,” she said.
She stressed that NADeF’s interest goes beyond granting scholarships to ensuring beneficiaries acquire the capacity and competencies needed to support inclusive and sustainable community development even beyond the mine’s operational lifespan.
A guest speaker, Dr. Mrs. Vida Owusu Prempeh, Senior Lecturer at the Sunyani Technical University, advised participants to embrace networking as a strategic tool for mobilising collaboration and resources for community advancement. She explained that networking helps build support systems, identify opportunities and strengthen locally led initiatives.
The event attracted hundreds of past beneficiaries, including the Ahafo Regional Minister, Charity Gardiner, and the Asutifi North District Chief Executive, Hafiz Dauda.
The homecoming was held on the theme: “Connecting the Past, Inspiring the Future” and provided a platform for beneficiaries to reconnect, share experiences and reflect on their roles in sustaining development gains within the Newmont host communities.
