H.E. Mr. Tateshi HIGUCHI, Ambassador of the Embassy of Japan and Chairmen of the Committees from State and Region concerned, signed the grant contracts for five projects today, under its Grant Assistance for Grass-roots Human Security Projects (GGP) Scheme, totaling US$ 584,493 as listed below:-

• 1. The Project for Construction of Min Ywa High School in Thanatpin Township, Bago Region ( US$ 99,271)
• 2. The Project for Construction of Kanbawza Theingi No.1 Nunnery School in Muse Township, Shan State (US$ 174,753)
• 3. The Project for Construction of Lay Paw Mu Basic Education Branch Middle School in Kyauk Kyi Township, Bago Region (US$ 92,035)
• 4. The Project for Construction of War Ta Loke Kani Village Basic Education High School in Einme Township, Ayeyarwady Region (US$ 103,084)
• 5. The Project for Construction of Sutkwin Village Basic Education Branch High School in Kangyidaung Township, Ayeyarwady Region (US$ 115,350)

The four schools and a nunnery school projects will benefit over 4,100 students, who are now studying under insufficient learning environment in old school buildings. Besides, the projects will indirectly benefit to local people of Karen and Shan in Bago Region, Ayeyarwady Region and Shan State. The fund will be spent for constructing new R.C building with sufficient classrooms and full school furniture.

The Government of Japan has assisted 694 various grass-roots projects in Myanmar under this GGP scheme since 1993 including 317 projects in education sector. It is anticipated that these assistances will further strengthen existing friendly relations between Myanmar and Japan, which marks its 60 years anniversary of diplomatic relations this year.