Rössing's bursary and apprenticeship programmes aim to address the need for specialised skill shortages within the country, specifically in the mining industry.
A total of N$3.24million has been set aside for the 2011 bursary recipients. The funds will cover a number of expenses, including registration and tuition fees, meals and accommodation, travel costs and a once-off computer allowance, among others.
The 2011 bursaries will cater for diverse fields of study, a break away from the mine's tradition to award bursaries directly related to the mining industry. Bursaries will be awarded in the mine's core fields of engineering and geology but will also extend to pharmaceutical studies and social science Specialising in community development and industrial psychology, among others.
Jerome Mutumba, Manager Corporate Communications and External Relations commented on the mining giant's objectives: "Over the past 10 years, Rössing has contributed significantly towards the Namibian economy. A total of N$75 million has been spent in bursaries, training programmes and apprenticeships benefiting thousands of Namibians. He added: "In realising our potential, Rössing adopts a strategic focus in training and developing its employees. The company continues to invest in its employees by offering a wide-range of improvement programmes, leadership development programmes and on Rio Tinto's exchange programmes."
In 2009, the total number of bursary students stood at 60, inclusive of existing and new students. Eight of these recipients graduated at the end of last year and have now been incorporated into the mine's Graduate Development Programme.
Additionally, in the same year a total of 440 employees were part of the company's training and development programme, resulting in an investment of approximately N$18 million in employee's development during the past year, of which 120 were artisan and bursary students.
"During the past five years the mine has invested over N$67 million in the development of its employees, speaking volumes of its commitment to the development of Namibia's workforce and enabling us to have a total workforce that is almost 100% Namibian," concluded Mutumba.
Suitably qualified applicants from designated Affirmative Action Groups, especially women, are encouraged to apply. Bursary application forms are available on the Rössing website at www.rossing.com, the Rössing Swakopmund office in the Stadtmitte Mall, the Windhoek office at 360 Sam Nujoma Drive in Klein Windhoek or the Rössing Foundation office at Ondangwa Centre Main Road in Ondangwa. The Closing Date for application is 24 September 2010.
Ends
Issued by
Jerome Mutumba
Manager, Corporate Communications and External Relations