Japan provides 500m yen for 4th Primary Education Development Programme

Japan ambassador to Bangladesh Iwama Kiminori and Economic Relations Division secretary Sharifa Khan shakes hand after signing the agreement in Dhaka on 20 June, 2023
UNB

Japan has provided another 500 million yen in grant aid for the Fourth Primary Education Development Programme (PEDP4) as part of Tokyo’s continued support for Bangladesh’s education sector, reports news agency UNB.

The Exchange of Notes, formalising this agreement, was signed by Japan ambassador to Bangladesh Iwama Kiminori and Economic Relations Division secretary Sharifa Khan, said a press release.

Under the agreement, Ichiguchi Tomohide, chief representative of JICA, Bangladesh Office, and Sharifa Khan also signed a relevant grant agreement, solidifying the commitment to the successful implementation of the programme.

Ambassador Iwama expressed his views on the occasion, stating, “As Bangladesh strives to become a developed country by 2041, it is crucial to not only focus on economic growth but also prioritise the enhancement of the education system to ensure inclusive growth.”

“Education is the key to developing human resources and is vital for the sustainable future of Bangladesh. I would like to emphasise that PEDP4 has played and will continue to play a crucial role. Japan remains committed to supporting all levels of education in this country,” he added.

This grant aid is part of Japan’s total contribution of 2 billion yen allocated for PEDP4. It serves as financial support for various initiatives aimed at achieving the goals of the programme, the release also said.