In recognition of World Teachers Day, Minerals and Metals Group (MMG) has reaffirmed the critical work of rural teachers during the Covid pandemic.
MMG, operator of the Kinsevere mine in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s Haut-Katanga province, has invested more than US $ 4,800,000 since 2006, improving access to education in the surrounding villages.
By mutual agreement with the local communities, six primary schools have been built, Kinsevere also support ongoing monthly bonus payments to 65 teachers and funds annually scholarships to 75 students to complete their secondary education as well as school infrastructure maintenance work.
“Supporting education is one of the best ways to reduce long term regional poverty. Teachers plays an important role in the 26 villages within our area of influence. We do our best to provide them with a suitable working environment,” said Mr. Michel Santos, Manager of Social Development.
At the same time, faced with the current health crisis, village teachers have innovated to sustain ongoing educational activities.
“Last year, when classes were closed due to Covid, our schools kept the flame alive with the home education kits handed out to students. MMG also acknowledges the additional support extended by the Congolese State and UNICEF”.
This global pandemic has served as a reminder of the remarkable role that teachers play on a daily basis in our communities.
“Teachers have worked hard to explain how village residents can prevent contracting Covid. They also became the intellectual leaders by representing the village in high-level discussions with the company. They know how to interpret the wishes and needs expressed by the community by ensuring their faithful transcription during meeting with us. In short, we are grateful for the high-level discussions that teachers have also shared with our mine operation,” concluded Mr. Santos.
Kinsevere works with more than 200 adults annually to extend important training and development opportunities. These skills equip them to participate and contribute to the cultural and social development of their region. Teachers drive the success of our regional adult literacy programs.
MMG Kinsevere remains committed to supporting host communities. The company is exploring new partnerships to improve access to education for more than 3,000 students together with promoting measures that curb the spread of Covid in schools.
Image: Kinsevere primary school teachers
