Pakistan, ADB sign $257mn agreements to strengthen Punjab's education, health sectors
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Pakistan and ADB signed $257M agreements to improve education and health in Punjab, focusing on STEM education and nursing workforce reforms, enhancing long-term social growth and services.
ISLAMABAD (APP) - Pakistan and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) here on Friday signed two major financing programmes worth US$257 million aimed at improving the education and health sectors in Punjab.
The programmes include the Responsive, Ready, and Resilient Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) Secondary Education in Punjab Programme amounting to USD 107 Million (including USD 7 Million grant of ADF) andii) Punjab Nursing and Health Workforce Reform Programamounting to USD 150 Million.
According to press release, Secretary, Ministry of Economic Affairs, Muhammad Humair Karim appreciated the ADB’s role as a trusted development partner and its continued support to Pakistan to complement its development initiatives.
The Secretary appreciated ADB’s financial support to these critical programs on concessional terms, which would significantly contribute to long-term and sustainable social growth, address the vital educational needs and health services requirement of the Punjab Province.
Besides, he acknowledged the efforts of the government of Punjab and emphasized on timely and effective utilization of the financing.
He said that STEM Secondary Education Program aims to transform the learning environment and ensure inclusivity across the province between 2026-2030.
Punjab Nursing Program focuses on expanding the pool of qualified nurses and improve health service delivery across the province. Three centers of excellence will also be established in Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi under this Program.
Speaking on the occasion, ADB Country Director, Ms. Emma Fan expressed appreciation for government of Pakistan’s strong commitment to these programs. She emphasized the significance of these two transformational programs on human development in critical sectors of education and health in Punjab.
She added that both programs are result-based and shall help in improving the ecosystem in both education and health sector.
The Secretary, School Education Department and Secretary, Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education Department Punjab highlighted benefits of the two programs and appreciated ADB.
They expressed government of Punjab’s commitment to effectively utilize the financing for successful and timely completion of the two programs.
