On November 28, the Ministry of Environment and Energy held a graduation ceremony for 139 miners from the mejORO Comprehensive School. The initiative aims to strengthen skills and promote responsible, mercury-free artisanal and small-scale mining. This effort is part of the planetGOLD Ecuador project, which receives support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Global Environment Facility (GEF), and the Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja (UTPL).
During the event in Loja, three participants were recognized for achieving top scores in the program. They stated that the training has already led to improvements in safety, efficiency, and environmental care within their operations.
The program included 66 hours of training covering topics such as exploration, metallurgy, health, environment, and technical management of operations. The curriculum was designed to combine traditional knowledge with innovation and specialized assistance.
According to officials, this achievement represents significant progress especially for Zamora Chinchipe and Loja provinces where artisanal mining is adopting safer and more environmentally friendly practices.
Authorities also announced a second phase for the mejORO school. It has become a national reference point for capacity building in artisanal and small-scale mining (MAPE), demonstrating progress toward higher standards compatible with formal markets while focusing on ecosystem protection and community well-being.
“With these actions, the Ministry of Environment and Energy consolidates its leadership in promoting sustainable, competitive, mercury-free artisanal and small-scale mining by generating training processes with strategic partners to support the transition toward cleaner technologies in the sector,” said ministry representatives.
