Reko Diq Mining Company Reopens Two Primary Schools in Chagai District After 13 Years

Noonkundi: Reko Diq Mining Company (RDMC) has reopened two primary schools in the remote villages of Bidok and Sarzai in Chagai District, which had been closed for 13 years. This initiative reaffirms RDMC’s commitment to local community development.
The Reko Diq project is a joint venture between Barrick and the governments of Balochistan and Pakistan, focused on developing a world-class copper and gold mine in Chagai District. RDMC’s investments in social sectors are guided by Community Development Committees (CDCs), which include local stakeholders and community leaders. The CDC for the Fan Sediment area proposed the reopening of these primary schools to ensure access to quality education for local children.
In implementing this proposal, RDMC has appointed teachers and provided students with free uniforms, books, and stationery. The original school buildings had fallen into disrepair after years of inactivity, and RDMC plans to commence reconstruction and renovation soon. Currently, classes are being held in alternative locations provided by the local community to facilitate immediate learning.
Mohammad Isa Tahir, Community Investment Lead at RDMC, emphasized, “Education is one of the five pillars of sustainable development that our community investment program focuses on, along with health, clean water, environment, food security, and local economic development.” RDMC currently operates seven primary schools in the vicinity of the Reko Diq project, serving 368 students, and aims to expand educational activities throughout Chagai District to provide more opportunities for local people.
In addition to educational initiatives, RDMC has established a technical training center in Noonkundi in collaboration with the Hunar Foundation, aimed at equipping local individuals with skills through various technical courses, thus creating employment opportunities. So far, 286 students have enrolled in courses such as IT, pipe fitting, office assistance, electrical work, carpentry, and masonry. Additionally, a new sewing and embroidery course for local women has been launched, training them to create quality garments, including uniforms for the Reko Diq mine site.
RDMC is committed to developing strategies based on long-term relationships with the local community, built on trust, respect, transparency, and partnership. The Reko Diq project is expected to operate for at least 40 years, with all social development activities designed to provide sustainable benefits to the local community. During the construction phase, the project is anticipated to generate employment for 7,500 people, with 4,000 long-term jobs created once production begins.
For inquiries, please contact:
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.barrick.com
Note: The Reko Diq project, located in Balochistan’s Chagai District, is one of the world’s largest undeveloped copper and gold projects. Barrick owns 50% of Reko Diq, with 25% held by three federal government entities, 15% fully funded by the Balochistan government, and 10% on a free-carry basis. Barrick is revisiting feasibility studies from 2010 and 2011, targeting completion by 2024, with the first production aimed for 2028. The project is expected to have a significant impact on Pakistan’s economic development and positive, long-lasting effects on the prosperity of Balochistan.