NADeF inaugurates hostel for trainee nurses
The Newmont Ahafo Development Foundation (NADeF), set up by Newmont to support sustainable development in its operational areas, has inaugurated a 24-unit hostel facility for students at the Ntotroso Nurses and Midwifery Training School.
Located at Ntotroso in the Asutifi North District of the Ahafo Region, the three-storey project was built at a cost of approximately GH₵4 million to address the difficulties trainees face in finding accommodation within the mining community.
The facility, designed to accommodate 240 students, comprises six well-equipped study rooms, modern washrooms, and a serene courtyard that fosters relaxation and academic engagement.
Investment
At the inauguration last Monday, the Executive Secretary of NADeF, Elizabeth Opoku-Darko, said that since the establishment of the foundation in 2008, it had invested nearly GH₵10 million in the school.
She said that demonstrated the foundation's commitment to strengthening the training of healthcare professionals who served not only the Ahafo communities but the entire nation.
Mrs Opoku-Darko said NADeF had earlier constructed a multi-purpose block comprising an administration wing, skills acquisition and computer laboratories, classroom blocks, and a principal’s bungalow.
She also mentioned a modern kitchen facility, a female dormitory, and the donation of a Toyota Hilux pickup to enhance the school's administrative and operational mobility.
Mrs Opoku-Darko said the investments would help the trainees to focus on their studies to improve their life-saving skills.
She explained that the hostel project was initiated in 2015 by the community, through its Sustainable Development Committee (SDC), to improve teaching and learning.
Mrs Opoku-Darko said the hostel facility would help promote students' safety and reduce commuting challenges.
She reaffirmed the foundation's commitment to supporting projects that brought dignity, progress and empowerment to their partner communities.
Flagship programme
The Lead Communities and Social Performance at Newmont, Natalia Poku-Boansi, said NADeF was one of the company's flagship programmes supporting its 10 host community development.
She assured Newmont's commitment to providing funds for the development of the communities.
Mrs Poku-Boansi urged the students to use the facility responsibly and maintain it for future students.
Lasting legacies
The Principal of the school, Augustina Naa Shorme Noi Ayivor, said NADeF investments in the school was not just buildings, but lasting legacies that would benefit many generations.
The Ntotrosomanhene, Barimah Twereku Ampem III, who championed the establishment of the school, said they were working hard to improve infrastructure and put in place other required measures so the school could meet the requirements for degree status.
He said the traditional council would continue to pursue both the government and NADeF to develop the school to provide quality education.
Writer's email: biiya.ali@graphic.com.gh
