The Government of Japan provides funds totalling US$95,004.00 (approx. AU$92,505.00) for a four (4) classrooms project at Aratokotoko Primary School in Kiribati. The funding was made available through Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) programme.

Representing the Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Kiribati on the handing over ceremony of Japan’s assistance is the Second Secretary Mr. Hideaki Kuroki. The handing over ceremony will be attended by senior Government Officials from the Government of Republic of Kiribati at 10.00am, 27th February, 2012.

Aratokotoko Primary School received funds for construction of four classrooms in an effort to provide better learning opportunity for the children of Kiribati. Some of the existing buildings are old and made of local material and are shared by two classes. The Government of Japan though its GGP program is pleased to be part of the development process in the upbringing of Aratokotoko Primary students, hence is donating the four classrooms at a substantial amount.

Japan’s assistance through these projects indicates its commitment to contribute to the improvement of the living standards and welfare of the people of Kiribati. It is also in line with its Official Development Assistance (ODA) policy of promoting development at the grassroots level. The GGP programme is specifically designed to address basic human needs, which include health, basic education, water supply, vocational training, sanitary environment and rural infrastructure.

It is hoped that this assistance will help further strengthen the friendly ties between the Governments and the people of Japan and Kiribati.