Epiroc, a major business partner of Asante Gold Chirano Ltd (AGCL), has adopted two basic schools, Kwanikrom Basic School and Lawerkrom Basic School, in the Sefwi Wiawso Municipality of the Western North Region. The company recently visited these communities to donate school items to basic school pupils under its Back-to-School initiative. This initiative is part of AGCL's annual My First Day at School programme, which aims to provide essential learning materials to pupils at the beginning of the academic year.
Human Resources Business Partner at Epiroc, Rhoda Aboagye, emphasized the importance of businesses supporting local education. She stated that education gives children the knowledge, confidence, and opportunities they need to build a better future. Aboagye also noted that companies must recognize that supporting local education is an investment in the long-term development of their host communities.
The adoption of the two basic schools reflects Epiroc's commitment to building meaningful relationships with local communities and supporting children at an important stage of their development. At Kwanikrom Basic School, Headmistress Mary Armah expressed gratitude for the support, stating that the materials would ease the burden on parents who are struggling financially.
The Headmistress of Lawerkrom Basic School, Linda Owusu Korkor, also thanked Epiroc and AGCL for their support. She described the donation as an encouragement to pupils, teachers, and parents, and urged the beneficiaries to use the materials responsibly to improve their academic work.
Environment and Community Relations Superintendent at AGCL, Stephen Gyamprah, commended Epiroc for embracing the My First Day at School programme and supporting the company's efforts to improve education across its catchment communities. Gyamprah noted that the involvement of business partners strengthens the impact of the programme and demonstrates what can be achieved when companies work together to respond to the needs of their local communities.
Epiroc's initiative is part of a broader effort to promote education in mining communities. The company's Back-to-School initiative aims to provide essential learning materials to pupils in communities where it operates. By supporting education, Epiroc and AGCL hope to make a positive impact on the lives of children in these communities and contribute to their long-term development.
Key stakeholders are calling for increased support for education in mining communities. The government, civil society organizations, and businesses are working together to improve education outcomes in these areas. Epiroc's initiative serves as an example of how businesses can contribute to the development of their host communities through education.
Key points
- Epiroc urges businesses to prioritize education in mining communities.
- The company has adopted two basic schools in the Sefwi Wiawso Municipality to support education.
- The initiative aims to provide essential learning materials to pupils and promote education in mining communities.
