IAMGOLD Hands Over Laptops to Burkinabè Students

IAMGOLD Hands Over Laptops to Burkinabè Students

Our Essakane mine team in Burkina Faso recently hosted a ceremony where they handed over computers to the beneficiaries of its two scholarship programs for postsecondary students.

A total of 37 students received a laptop: 32 as part of the five-year scholarship program, which IAMGOLD signed with the country's Ministry of Higher Education in March, and another 5 through the special workers' scholarship for children of IAMGOLD employees in Burkina Faso.

Both scholarships will help the students pay for living expenses and are disbursed through an initial payment and then a regular monthly stipend. A total of US$450K will be granted through the two scholarships.

During the ceremony, Mr. Tidiane Barry, General Manager of Essakane, encouraged the students to aim high in their studies and continue to reach for excellence, a value which Essakane employees strive to live by each and every day. He also stressed the importance of supporting the community for the Essakane mine.

"As a major private employer in Burkina Faso, we have a responsibility to ensure that the benefits of our mining activities are shared with all our host communities," said Mr. Barry. "It is extremely important for us that we continue to be an exemplary corporate citizen and that we continue to nurture strong ties with our neighbouring communities and Burkina Faso as a whole."

The Ministry of Higher Education's representative, Mr. Pascal Nikiema, expressed his gratitude to the Essakane mine team for fulfilling its pledge to support Burkinabè students and for being a solid corporate citizen and responsible miner.