Islamabad: The Government of Pakistan and Japan have signed a grant agreement valued at JPY 350 million (approximately US$ 2.2 million) to enhance the Human Resource Development Scholarship Program (JDS) 2026. The initiative aims to provide educational opportunities for young Pakistani civil service officers, fostering socio-economic growth in the nation.

According to Press Information Department, the ceremonial exchange of notes and signing event took place at the Ministry of Economic Affairs. Mr. Muhammad Humair Karim, Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, and H.E. Mr. Akamatsu Shuichi, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, signed the Record of Discussions & Exchange of Notes. The Grant Agreement was signed by Mr. Miran Mohiyuddin Soomro, Senior Joint Secretary, and Mr. Yusuke Shinozaki, Chief Representative of JICA Pakistan. The event was attended by officials from the Japanese Embassy, JICA, and the Ministry of Economic Affairs.

This grant represents the ninth installment of the JDS project initiated in 2018. It will fund sixteen scholarships for Master’s programs and one for a Ph.D. program in Japan, targeting young officers in Pakistan’s Federal Civil Service and Ex-Cadre. Since its inception, the JDS program has benefited eight batches, each comprising 17-18 participants, enhancing their capacity and performance in contributing to Pakistan’s development. Additionally, Japan regularly invites Pakistani officials for short-term training courses.

Mr. Muhammad Humair Karim conveyed his gratitude to Japan for its continuous support and cooperation. Meanwhile, H.E. Mr. Akamatsu Shuichi and Mr. Yusuke Shinozaki reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties and bilateral cooperation with Pakistan.