Formal signature with Niger for the creation of an occupational training institute

GROUP / COMMUNICATION

April 20, 2012

An agreement for the creation of the Industrial Ressources Training Institute of Niger (Institut de Formation des Ressources Industrielles du Niger – IFRI-Niger) has been signed between AREVA and the Nigerien government on April 13 at Niamey. The event was attended by the Minister of Middle and Higher Education and Scientific Research, the Prime Minister’s chief of staff, the director of the AFD Niger, and representatives of the Occupational Training and Employment Ministry.

The purpose of this institute, created in 2010 under the auspices of the French Development Agency (AFD), is to help the growth of the industrial and technological sectors by supporting the development of job training and employment.

Starting in 2013, this ambitious project  will rely on existing training institutions (for example, the School of Mining and Geology in Niamey) to provide instruction the first year to nearly 500 young people coming out of the general education system. In 2014, a new school will open at Agadez that will offer training for a diploma to more than 300 students each year.

Speaking on this occasion, Nana Hadiza Noma Kaka, Minister of Occupational Training and Employment, said she was delighted that this project dedicated entirely to job training for young professionals in Niger, notably for the mining sector, had become a reality.

Imad Toumi, Managing Director of AREVA Mines Niger, noted that, the development of the Imouraren mine will lead to the creation of more than 1,500 jobs. This will require a substantial training effort, which AREVA committed to support with the establishment of the IFRI.