Japanese Ambassador Akio Isomata on Tuesday signed two grant contracts under the “Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP)” with two NGOs, Humanitarian Development Organization (HDO) and Nuffield School for Deaf and Blind, during his first trip to the Northern Province, a press release issued by the Embassy said.
The signing took place in the presence of Northern Province Governor, Nagalingam Vethanayahan, at the latter’s office in Jaffna.
The Government of Japan has allocated USD 173,659 (approx. Rs. 50 million) for these projects to enhance medical and educational facilities in the Northern Province. Supporting development in conflict-affected areas remains a priority in Japan’s official development assistance to Sri Lanka, particularly in promoting mitigation of vulnerabilities.
HDO is implementing the “Project for the Construction of a Medical Ward for Palai Divisional Hospital”, which will improve healthcare services in the Kilinochchi District by constructing a new inpatient ward at Palai Divisional Hospital. The hospital, serving 14,927 resettled individuals, currently suffers from severe overcrowding and inadequate hygiene facilities.
The “Project for the Improvement of Nuffield School for the Deaf and Blind in the Northern Province” aims to create a safe and comfortable learning environment for children. The Nuffield School is the only Tamil-language institution providing free education and residential facilities for deaf and blind children from all over Sri Lanka. This project will also enhance power supply safety, sanitation, and hostel facilities in the school.
Ambassador Isomata reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting vulnerable communities and sustainable growth in Sri Lanka, particularly in the Northern Province.