The Newmont Ahafo Development Foundation (NADeF) has broken ground for the construction of a GH¢19.9 million College of Education at Kenyasi Number One in the Ahafo Region.
The project, expected to be completed within two years, forms part of the Foundation’s commitment to supporting education and sustainable community development in Newmont’s ten host communities.
The first phase will include a two-storey administration block, a 580-bed hostel, and a 480-seat classroom block to facilitate the commencement of academic activities. The facilities are being constructed by local contractors.
Speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony, NADeF’s Executive Secretary, Elizabeth Opoku-Darko, commended the Kenyasi Number One Traditional Council for its vision and commitment to establishing the college.
She said the institution would significantly enhance teacher education and human resource development in the Ahafo Region and beyond.
Mrs. Opoku-Darko noted that NADeF, funded by Newmont, remains committed to working with host communities through strategic investments, partnerships and capacity-building initiatives to promote sustainable development.
Representing the Omanhene of Kenyasi Number One, the Krontihene, Nana Yaw Boadu Ayeboafo, pledged the Traditional Council’s full support for the project and urged the contractors to deliver quality work within schedule.
The Asutifi North District Director of Education, Naomi Asantewaa, described the project as a major boost for education in the district.
She expressed optimism that the college would strengthen teacher training and said her office would ensure trainee teachers undertake their teaching practice in schools across the area.
The General Manager of Newmont Ahafo South Mine, Ing. Alex Kofi Annin, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the socio-economic development of its host communities.
He highlighted Newmont’s support for the construction of the Sunyani–Ntotroso–Acherensua highway in partnership with the Government of Ghana, as well as planned asphalt road projects in communities including Kenyasi and Ntotroso.
Story by Richard Kofi Boahen, Kenyasi Number One
