by Judith Obioha Kelvin
The Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF) Chair in Mineral and Petroleum Sciences at the University of Jos hosted a public lecture titled “Transparent and Traceable Gemstones in the Supply Chain”. The event took place at the Department of Geology, Naraguta campus, University of Jos, on Friday, November 24, 2023.
Addressing the audience, Ms. Jenna White expressed appreciation for everyone’s attendance, especially noting the impressive turnout of students. She highlighted the event’s significance, aiming to enlighten and educate students about the mining business, gemstones, supply chain dynamics, and value addition.
Ms. White disclosed that her study would focus on five countries: Madagascar, Kenya, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, and Nigeria. She emphasized that Nigerian gemstones, though not widely known on the international market, are bought by international buyers, taken out of the country for cutting, and then resold to Nigerians.
Mrs. Takena Koko, co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Gold Treasure Exchange Ltd. (Goltrex), shared her journey from being a psychologist to a graduate of Applied Jewellery Professional (AJP) and encouraged students, especially women, to explore opportunities in the mining business.
In a conversation with Ms. Jenna White, a dedicated Ph.D. student researching the global colored gemstone supply chain, said Nigeria was highlighted as a focal point and expressed hope that both faculty and students would grasp the nuances of the colored gemstone supply chain in Nigeria, recognizing potential opportunities within the mining business.
Dr. Ramatu Fiona, a staff member of the Department of Geology and the secretary of Women in Mining, Plateau State chapter, shared insights into the PTDF’s role in carrying out research and data collection at the University of Jos. She emphasized that entering independent training in geology is attainable with determination, focus, and integrity, offering diverse career opportunities.
The program, attended by over 50 students from different faculties, was both educational and engaging. Key figures such as Ms. Jenna White, Mrs. Tekena Koko, Dr. Ramatu Fiona, the HoD Geology Department Dr. Ramond Gaspa, and former HoD H.U Final Dr. Terso Aga, enriched the program with their presence.
