40 graduates join GGML’s new internship project
40 graduates from different universities and higher learning institutions have enrolled in the Geita Gold Mining Limited internship programme for 2024/2025. They were welcomed last week at the official launch and have started their programme under the full sponsorship of GGML. PHOTO | COURTESY
What you need to know:
- The internship training programme will give unemployed graduates the opportunity to gain work experience that will complement their studies and help them compete in the job market
Geita. Some 40 graduates from various institutions of higher learning will join Geita Gold Mining Limited (GGML) for an internship programme in the next season to make them employable.
The training, which will last for one year (2024/2025), will cover various areas within the mine and disciplines, including apprenticeships, trades, mining expertise and other areas established to develop the skills of young Tanzanians.
Speaking at the launch of the programme in Geita at the weekend, GGML’s senior vice president, Africa Business Unit, Mr Terry Strong, said the training programme will give unemployed graduates the opportunity to gain work experience that will complement their studies and help them compete in the job market.
He said the programme, which started in 2009, has benefited a total of 258 graduates (including the current batch) from various higher education institutions in Tanzania.
“The target group consists of 41 percent female and 59 percent male graduates. Of the 258 graduates enrolled, 87 were employed by GGML on permanent contracts in various positions within the company, while the remainder were employed on temporary contracts.
“With several successes achieved so far, GGML is committed to continuing the on-the-job training programme as an important recruitment tool,” he said.
Mr Terry also welcomed the 40 graduates who passed their interviews to officially start their programme under the full sponsorship of Geita Gold Mining Ltd, and the 10 graduates who successfully completed the 2023/2024 Internship Programme are now taking the next step in their careers at GGM, having been promoted to an advanced graduate programme.
Geita Regional Commissioner Martin Shigella, who was the guest of honour during the launch, not only thanked GGML for implementing the programme but also congratulated the group of graduates from various colleges who are fortunate enough to have been trained at GGML this year.
“Getting this opportunity within GGML is not only a way to gain experience, but it is a springboard to fully realise your potential. Use your knowledge and let your passion lead you to excellence,” he said.
The head of training and skills department at the Association of Tanzania Employers, Mr Albert Rukeisa, who spoke at the launch on behalf of the executive director of the Tanzania Employers’ Association (ATE), Suzanne Ndomba-Doran, congratulated GGML for its efforts, which for over 15 years have been a springboard for other employers to continue to provide learning opportunities for young people and increase the number of mining professionals in the sector.
“At the same time, I would like to remind these young people using the Swahili saying that goes, 'If you are caught, stick to it.' Go and put in hard work and honesty. By prioritising safety protocols and adhering to procedures within the mine, you'll uncover the invaluable virtues of obedience and industriousness,” he said.
Diana Laswai, one of the students who graduated last year and was employed by GGML, not only thanked GGML but also the government for continuing to encourage the private sector to provide on-the-job training.
