Japan has extended grant aid worth ¥350 million, or around $2.2 million, for the 2026 Human Resource Development Scholarship Program in Pakistan.
The JDS program aims to strengthen the capacity of Pakistani government institutions. It provides public officials with opportunities to pursue master’s and doctoral degrees at leading universities in Japan.
A formal signing ceremony was held in Islamabad for the new grant. Japanese Ambassador to Pakistan Akamatsu Shuichi and Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Affairs Muhammad Humair Karim Kidwai exchanged Notes Verbale during the ceremony.
A Grant Agreement for the implementation of the JDS program for fiscal year 2026 was also signed. JICA Pakistan Chief Representative Shinozaki Yusuke and Senior Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Affairs Miran Mohiyuddin Soomro signed the agreement.
The JDS program was launched in Pakistan in 2018. The initiative is part of Japan’s efforts to strengthen the administrative and institutional capacity of the Government of Pakistan.
Under the program, government officers involved in planning and implementing policies are selected for higher education in Japan. Priority is given to officials working in areas linked to Pakistan’s social and economic development.
JICA has so far sent more than 100 Pakistani government officials to Japan through the program. More than 80 scholars have completed their studies and returned to Pakistan.
The returning scholars are contributing to Pakistan’s development by applying the knowledge and skills gained during their studies. The program is also designed to strengthen professional links between officials from both countries.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ambassador Akamatsu said investing in people was among the most sustainable investments a country could make.
He said supporting young civil servants to pursue advanced degrees in Japan was not only about academic qualifications. According to him, the initiative also helps prepare future leaders.
The ambassador added that returning scholars bring new knowledge and fresh perspectives to Pakistan. They also develop a deeper understanding of Japan, its people, culture and values.
The program is therefore expected to contribute to stronger institutional cooperation between Pakistan and Japan. It also provides Pakistani officials with international academic and professional exposure.
The latest grant reflects Japan’s continued support for human resource development in Pakistan. It is also aimed at improving public sector capacity through education and professional training.
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