According to the company, this significant milestone marks another step in Petra Diamonds' commitment to social responsibility through its Social and Labour Plan (SLP) projects.

True to its purpose of creating abundance from rarity, Petra Diamonds recognises the importance of investing in the development of its mine host communities, particularly in nurturing the potential of the youth.

The collaborative effort between Petra Diamonds, the Department of Mineral Resource and Energy, the Department of Basic Education and the Onverwacht Primary School and the host community exemplifies the power of driving shared value partnerships to create positive change, says Petra Diamonds. 

The completion of Phase 2b builds upon the success of Phase one, which was finalised in 2017 and included:
  • the construction of four classrooms
  • a nutrition centre, and
  • an Early Childhood Development (ECD) centre.

The upgraded facilities in Phase 2b further enhance the school's infrastructure and now boast:
  • an administration block
  • a library
  • a guardhouse, and 
  • a kitchen, and
  • staffroom. 

To amplify the positive impact of the project on the community, the full scope of work was awarded to and executed by a local, women-owned mmall, medium, and micro-sized enterprise.

The initiative resulted in the creation of 35 short-term employment opportunities for community members, in addition to offering 10 subcontracting opportunities that further facilitated short-term employment for over 30 previously unemployed individuals within the community, according to Petra Diamonds. 

Richard Duffy, CEO of Petra Diamonds, expressed his enthusiasm for the project.

"Petra Diamonds is proud to contribute to the growth and development of the Onverwacht community. Education is a cornerstone of societal progress, and the Onverwacht Primary School Project exemplifies our dedication to creating abundance from rarity. Today, we do not merely hand over a set of buildings; we deliver on a promise, an investment into infrastructure and education," says Duffy. 

The company says that Petra Diamonds proudly upholds and supports five Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and this project, specifically contributes to SDG 4: Quality Education. This goal seeks to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education, promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Petra Diamonds recognises the need for ongoing investment in local infrastructure and is committed to fostering sustainable outcomes for all stakeholders, the company adds. 

"As Petra Diamonds continues to build strong relationships within the communities within which we operate, the company remains steadfast in its commitment to contributing to the future viability of local communities. By investing in education, Petra Diamonds is actively working to brighten the future of the youth in the region," concludes the company. 

For more information, visit www.petradiamonds.com. You can also follow Petra Diamonds on Facebook, X or on Instagram.