On March 5, 2014, the hand-over and opening ceremony of Dhamathukha Monastic Primary School in Mawlamyaing Township, Mon State constructed under the Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grass-Roots Human Security Projects (GGP) was held at the monastic school.

Mr. Masahiro FUJIKAWA, second secretary of the Embassy of Japan, U Thet Win, Minister for Bamar National Race Affairs of Mon State, Dr Toe Toe Aung, Minister for Development Affairs of Mon State, U Nai Lawi Aung, Minister for Electric Power and Industry of Mon State, committee chairman and committee members of the school construction project headed by Chief Monk Sayardaw, students and local residents attended.

At the ceremony, Minister for Bamar National Race Affairs of Mon State, U Thet Win expressed his appreciation for the assistance from the Japanese government and its people in the reform of education sector.

After his speech, Mr. FUJIKAWA said that there used to be a similar education system in Japan, so-called “Terakoya”, in which monks and civil educated people taught readings and math to children and it is said that such education system contributed nation’s development. Therefore, Japanese Government would like to further continue the assistance for the education sector for further.

The Japanese Government granted USD 98,875 for construction of Dhamathukha Monastic Primary School with a two-storey RC building comprised of 6 classrooms equipped with toilets and school furniture.

It is expected that this assistance will further strengthen existing friendly relation between Japan and Myanmar in the year of 60th anniversary for establishment of diplomatic relationship.