Akwatia, June 17, GNA - The Youth in Mining Module of the National Youth Employment Programme (NYEP) has been launched at Akwatia. The programme would focus on creating jobs, mostly small-scale ventures, for the youth in mining communities. IT would also train them in best mining practices and environmental conservation.

The launch was sponsored by the Great Consolidated Diamond Limited (GCDL), a Ghanaian owned company, interested in taking over the running of the Ghana Consolidated Diamond, (GCD) which is under divestiture. Their operations have grounded to a halt.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Deputy Eastern Regional Minister, Mr Baba Jamal, announced that 10 companies had shown interest to take over the GCD. Their bids were opened on Tuesday and within the next few months GCD would be revived not only to contribute to the national economy but also to improve the socio-economic life of Akwatia.

He said the company that would win the bid would be made to reclaim mined-out areas and engage in projects like agriculture and fish farming. On the Youth in Mining Module of the NYEP, Mr Jamal said it would train the youth on best mining methods and they would be given land and equipment like excavators to mine efficiently and effectively. They would also be encouraged to undertake environmental conservation. Mr Jamal said the youth in mining programme would be for all Ghanaians, irrespective of political party affiliations.

He said all that was required was for them to work hard and to show discipline so that the programme would benefit them and the nation. The National Co-ordinator of the NYEP, Mr Abuga Pele, said the new programme would elevate small-scale mining, give skills training in mining, impart managerial know-how and promote modern agriculture. Mr Pele said an NYEP Bill would soon be passed by Parliament and the programme would be given sufficient funding to operate without the present challenges facing it.

The programme was launched by the Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports, Nii Nortey Dua, who appealed to all Ghanaians, especially the youth, to ensure the success of the programme. The chairman of the function, Osabarima Kofi Boateng III, who is also the Akwatiahene, on behalf of the people, expressed appreciation to the government for the efforts it was making to bring GCD back to life. 17 June 10