Japan announced a grant of 472 million Japanese Yen (equivalent to approximately USD 3.38 million) for the implementation of “The Project for Human Resource Development Scholarship (JDS)” in Bangladesh.

The Exchange of Notes and Grant Agreement were signed on Monday between the governments of Bangladesh and Japan, solidifying their commitment to the project, according to a press release.

Secretary to the Economic Relations Division (ERD) under the Ministry of Finance, Sharifa Khan and Japanese Ambassador to Bangladesh IWAMA Kiminori, signed the Exchange of Notes.

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The grant is aimed to support the education and professional growth of Bangladeshi officials and strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations, said the release.

JICA Bangladesh’s Chief Representative ICHIGUCHI Tomohide signed the Grant Agreement on behalf of the Government of Japan.

“The Project for Human Resource Development Scholarship (JDS)” has been in operation since 2001 under the supervision of the ERD and is set to continue until 2025.

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The newly granted funds will be dedicated to providing scholarships for various groups, including BCS cadre officers, Bangladesh Judicial Service officers, First Class Officers of the Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division, and officials from Bangladesh Bank., said the release.

These beneficiaries will have the opportunity to pursue Master's and PhD courses at esteemed universities throughout Japan, it added.

The project has so far facilitated the academic accomplishments of 414 officials who have successfully completed their Master's degrees, while five officials have attained PhD. degrees from reputable Japanese universities.

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