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March 21, 2026
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Building local talent: Newmont’s apprenticeship journey that transformed Bernice Kantaka’s future
Money
Policy
Opportunity
Growth
Key Points
- Bernice Sarfo Kantaka, a KNUST Chemistry graduate, faced unemployment after National Service in 2021 before joining Newmont’s Scalable Apprenticeship Programme.
- The three-year program provided intensive technical training in areas like Fixed Plant Mechanical and Mobile Maintenance, alongside personal development.
- Bernice and her cohort of 10 apprentices graduated, all securing employment with Newmont; 97% of all apprentices trained by Newmont find jobs with the company or partners.
- Newmont invests over US$43,000 per apprentice and, with NADeF, has supported over 14,000 young people through various educational and training initiatives since 2006.
- Bernice, now a Treatment Plant Operator, plans to pursue further engineering degrees, inspired to close the gender gap in the field and motivate her younger siblings.
Why This Matters
This article is significant for Ghana as it showcases a successful private-sector initiative addressing critical issues of youth unemployment and skills development, particularly within mining host communities. It highlights a model for local capacity building and economic empowerment through vocational training and employment, which directly contributes to Ghana's human capital development and poverty reduction efforts. The program's focus on empowering women in STEM fields also aligns with national goals for gender equality and a more inclusive workforce.
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