AngloGold Ashanti, UMaT and LiMAP-Gh Foster Student Success with Mentorship Programme

Tarkwa: Hundreds of first-year students at the University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) in Tarkwa attended the fourth edition of the 'Start Right, End Well' Mentorship Programme. The event aimed to equip students with essential tools for success in academia, career, and life.According to Ghana News Agency, the annual programme is organized by AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine in collaboration with Ladies in Mining and Allied Professions in Ghana (LiMAP-Gh) and UMaT. The theme for this year's gathering was 'Undergraduate Study: Success Essentials.'Mr. Bayerinaa Nmanii, Senior Manager-Mining at AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine, addressed students, faculty, and industry experts. He highlighted the mine's commitment to transforming lives and communities through sustainable mining. He noted that supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4, Iduapriem Mine has promoted inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all.He revealed that last year, about GHS12 million was invested in their Educ ation and Youth Development Programme to enhance access to quality education and empower the youth. Specifically, 146 students benefitted from their Community Scholarship Programme, with 65 students directly benefitting from UMaT. Additionally, 40 youths gained employment-ready skills through training at the Obuasi Engineering School.Mr. Nmanii emphasized the importance of inclusive education, mentioning the establishment of a Tech Laboratory in partnership with UMaT and the Inclusive Tech Group. This facility offers ICT training for Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in the municipality, and recently, 20 PWDs received training there.He also discussed the ongoing establishment of a Smart Systems (Robotics) Centre at UMaT, which will provide training in Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things, and Robotics tools. Robotic kits valued at over USD 700,000 have been received, and UMaT has been notified for inspection and collection.Mr. Nmanii encouraged students to embrace the five essential pillars of Vision, Discipline, Adaptability, Collaboration, and Self-reflection to achieve success beyond their university years. He advised students to develop effective study habits, manage their time well, and remain committed to their responsibilities.Professor Anthony Simons, the immediate past Pro Vice Chancellor of UMaT, acknowledged the significant transition from Senior High School to University. He assured students of the collaborative effort between UMaT, AAIL, and LiMAP-Gh, emphasizing their commitment to student success.Dr. Emefa Priscilla Amenyah Kove, Vice President of LiMAP-Gh, stated that the programme would provide students with insights into self-leadership, emotional intelligence, academic success strategies, student leadership, financial management, and well-being. She noted that these tools would empower students to thrive both in and beyond the classroom.The programme featured a panel discussion with distinguished speakers who shared their expertise and experiences. Participating students ex pressed gratitude to the organizers and promised to leverage the insights gained from the speakers.