Zebaldt Ngaruka
Mining entity Bannerman Mining Resources recently held the second edition of its annual bi-regional essay competition and announced the winners at St. Joseph RC Döbra in the Khomas region.
The essay competition, open to high schools in the Erongo and Khomas regions, aims to raise awareness and interest in mining issues in the country amongst young people.
Speaking to New Era, Matjiua Hengua, senior stakeholder relations advisor at Bannerman Mining Resources Namibia, said the mining company has partnered with the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), and the Schools Environmental Clubs Namibia.
“This initiative will enable high school learners to have an insight into mining issues so that they can think ahead in terms of career choices. Also, this competition will create room for meaningful conversations that can spark innovative suggestions for sustainable mining in the country,” she said.
Richie Florry, a grade 11 learner from St. Joseph RC Döbra, won first prize, while second place went to Gerardino Moses from Delta Secondary School. The third place was claimed by a grade 10 learner, Moses Shiyakela, from Sunshine Private School.
The three winners, Florry, Moses, and Shiyakela, respectively received N$3 000, N$2 000, and N$1 000 vouchers in addition to a paid trip to see the Etango Mine site in the Erongo region.
She further said this year’s winner was selected not only for the quality of his essay but also based on an oral presentation held at NUST in October.
Tuapewa Kadhikwa, the chairperson of the Bannerman Mining Resources Namibia, told the learners to be bold enough to believe in themselves.
“You must dare to become champions as that is the way to build the confidence that is required to take the opportunities that will ultimately propel you to success,” Kadhikwa said.
She urged them to take the opportunities presented to them.