Elementary education
This year we reinforced our approach to the use of technology in schooling younger children. Through the provision of laptop computers and educational software, we were able to enhance the teaching of numeracy and literacy. From a teaching perspective, the Group supported teachers on the use of IT in planning and delivering classes. In 2019, we were able to support over 300 students across 12 schools in remote areas within our sphere of influence.
Secondary education
Hochschild focused its support for high school students on the development and strengthening of soft skills for adult life and entrepreneurship. Over the course of 2019, we have collaborated with close to 600 secondary students and almost 100 teachers across seven educational establishments.
Digital centres
2019 saw the second intake of students on technical courses delivered by our digital centres in the areas of IT, educational computing and audiovisual & technical support. Over 100 students were enrolled on the one-year programme with teaching provided by staff from the well-established college TECSUP. In addition to facilitating these courses, the digital centres were also used by local communities for general use.
Scholarship programme
In collaboration with the Julian Baring Scholarship Fund, the Group launched a scholarship programme for the communities close to the Inmaculada mine. The programme, which sought to address the issue of gender inequality in its selection of students, will see six students pursue mining-related technical courses at CETEMIN. The Group has currently funded over 30 young people on similarly funded schemes.
Medico de Cabecera
(the Travelling Doctor programme)
Through the Travelling Doctor programme, the Group formed an alliance with the Health Ministry to extend the reach of medical services to the remote communities living close to our operations. In addition to the provision of general medical care through the mobile clinic, the scheme has facilitated home visits as well as campaigns to promote good health and illness prevention. In 2019, the programme delivered over 9,000 consultations.
Business networks
This initiative, which is focused on bringing economic development within our local spheres of influence, brings technical knowledge and technical assistance for local producers and breeders. For the first time, the programme also established local community banks which supported producers to save money and leverage new business opportunities through the provision of loans. This year we supported around 250 businesses with a diversified range of produce. In 2019, the programme generated revenue of over 480,000 soles (approximately US$145,000).
In conjunction with our joint venture partner, we supported a number of initiatives at the San Jose operation in Argentina. These have included scholarship opportunities for 50 students from the local town of Perito Moreno and support for local cultural events.
