The first two candidates under Kagem Mining scholarship programme have completed their first internship at the world’s largest emerald mine before returning to their respective universities for the new term.
Wesley S Kanyinji, Mulenga E Nkandu, Nicolous Simukoko and Mwangala Njahi were handpicked to kick-start the US$345,000 industry training initiative earlier this year by Kagem, which is is 75 per cent owned by London-listed Gemfields plc, in partnership with the Zambian government, which owns the other 25 per cent.
Under the scholarship programme, 12 students from the geological and mining engineering departments at the School of Mines at the University of Zambia and Copperbelt University will receive comprehensive scholarships for the duration of their course over a period of eight years. The scholarship covers the full cost of education which includes tuition fees, boarding fees, up-keep, clothing and book allowances. The students are selected for the internship programme during their second and third years of study and are also placed under Kagem’s medical scheme.
During recess, the students are expected to undergo a period of internship at the mine, taking up an apprenticeship upon completion of their studies. They are committed to work for Kagem for a period corresponding with the sponsorship period.
The agreement between Kagem and the two universities seeks to close the gap between technical and theoretical training and mining requirements to produce industry-oriented graduates.
“We are very keen to develop young talent in the mining sector which is known for requiring a specialised set of skills, but that can be hard to come by. This programme will allow us to develop a unique and well rounded ‘tailor-made’ set of graduates that will not only contribute to the productivity and efficiency of the mine but also go towards developing a more hands-on curriculum for upcoming mining students in partnership with respective institutions,” said Kagem board chairman Mr William Nyirenda.
“In order to foster innovations in Zambia’s mining sector, it is imperative that we actively develop and train students that meet current demands but also ones that are able to adapt to prevailing environments in the near future and beyond. We are optimistic about this group and look forward to seeing the success of this programme over the coming months and years,” he added.
The four selected students are:
Nicolous Simukoko – In his third year with the School of Mines at the University of Zambia, Nicolous enrolled determined to pursue his dream of becoming a geologist. In addition to the scholarship, Nicolous has further demonstrated his commitment to his studies through finding part time work to ensure he graduates.
Wesley S Kanyinji – This third year student of mining engineering with the Copperbelt University is determined not be put off by the fear of whatever the future might hold. He is keen to learn what is necessary to succeed in life. He cited financial challenges as one of the main obstacles facing students as it was difficult to study when funds were unavailable, but the generous sponsorship from Kagem will enable him to focus on realising his dream of becoming an engineer.
Mulenga Emmanuel Nkandu – For Copperbelt University second year Mining Engineering student Nkandu, having the support from Kagem has enabled this Busakile resident to renew his studies with even more vigour, as the anxiety that came as a result of not knowing how he would complete his education has been lifted. He is looking forward to gaining his degree and becoming an expert in his field. His heart is set on gaining a PhD over time.
Mwangala Njahi – Twenty-one-year-old Mwangala Njahi is the first female in the initial generation of scholars under the programme. The future geologist believes in striving for perfection in everything she does and is eager to move ahead with her studies having obtained the scholarship. The youngest in a family of four, Mwangala lost her parents at an early age. She is enthusiastic about learning something new on a daily basis and eager to start her career in geology.
“All these students are exceptional because they have gone against all odds to make it to where they are. It’s often easier to give up on one’s dreams and settle for ‘just enough’ but they have exhibited the drive, resilience and determination to overcome obstacles that we believe will be a great asset both to the mining sector and to the students, even as they pursue their careers in mining, which is certainly not for the faint-hearted,” said Mr Nyirenda.
Supporting social development is not a new concept for Kagem, with the mine having supported and initiated several education projects at primary levels in Lufwanyama, the most recent being the building of a new secondary school in the district. Through its shared value model, Kagem seeks to extend the benefits of Zambia’s emerald success by empowering and enabling communities with skills and infrastructure that will result in the self-sustenance of the community in Lufwanyama District.