ISLAMABAD, Aug 11 (APP):Japan has announced a grant of 350 million Japanese Yen for the 2026 Human Resource Development Scholarship (JDS) Program, a scheme that has already enabled more than 100 Pakistani government officers to study in Japan since its launch in 2018. More than 80 scholars have completed their studies and returned to Pakistan, contributing to public sector development through the knowledge and skills gained during their academic programs. …
Japan announces ¥350 million grant for 2026 Pakistani Human Resource Scholarship Program
ISLAMABAD, Aug 11 (APP):Japan has announced a grant of 350 million Japanese Yen for the 2026 Human Resource Development Scholarship (JDS) Program, a scheme that has already enabled more than 100 Pakistani government officers to study in Japan since its launch in 2018.
More than 80 scholars have completed their studies and returned to Pakistan, contributing to public sector development through the knowledge and skills gained during their academic programs.
The Government of Japan formalized the grant during a signing ceremony held in Islamabad. The exchange of official documents took place between Japan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, AKAMATSU Shuichi, and Muhammad Humair Karim Kidwai, Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Affairs.
A separate grant agreement detailing the implementation of the Fiscal Year 2026 project was signed by SHINOZAKI Yusuke, Chief Representative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Pakistan Office, and Miran Mohiyuddin Soomro, Senior Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Economic Affairs.
The Human Resource Development Scholarship Program was launched in Pakistan in 2018 as part of Japan’s support for strengthening government institutions. The initiative provides Pakistani civil servants with opportunities to pursue Master’s and Ph.D. degrees at universities in Japan.
Participants are selected from government officers involved in planning and implementing social and economic development policies. The program aims to help public officials expand their professional knowledge and improve their ability to contribute to policy development and public administration.
According to JICA, more than 100 government officers have been sent to Japan under the scholarship program. More than 80 of them have completed their academic studies and returned to Pakistan, where they are serving in different government departments.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador AKAMATSU Shuichi said the program reflects Japan’s belief that investment in human resources plays an important role in national development. He said the scholarship initiative helps Pakistani civil servants gain academic qualifications, new knowledge, and a better understanding of Japan, its society, and its culture.
The ambassador noted that graduates of the program contribute to strengthening ties between Pakistan and Japan by bringing experience and understanding gained during their time in Japan.
JICA Pakistan Chief Representative SHINOZAKI Yusuke said the project is intended to support the Government of Pakistan in improving institutional capacity and advancing long-term development goals. He stated that the third phase of the program will continue efforts to build the capabilities of Pakistani government officials while supporting cooperation between the two countries.
He added that the initiative also supports JICA’s broader development policy objectives by contributing to human resource development and promoting balanced regional growth.
The latest grant marks another step in the continuing partnership between Pakistan and Japan, with both countries working together to develop professional expertise within Pakistan’s public sector and strengthen cooperation through education and capacity-building programs.
