Author: Kyaw Min | 08 Nov 2017
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) provided a $1.5 billion grant to help improve Myanmar’s education system in early October, according to U Myo Thein Gyi.
The Japanese agency said there are three things that deter a student’s motivation to continue learning. The quality of teachers in the classroom, and school facilities, and the overall educational experience.
In light of that, the funds will be allocated into two parts. The first part will be for basic education high school facilities across the nation. Dilapidated school buildings will be renovated and new buildings will be constructed as needed, U Myo Thein Gyi, said. This will include things like administration buildings, assembly halls and gymnasiums, classrooms, sleeping accommodations for teachers and students, dining halls with kitchens, and any associated equipment.
The second part of the funds will aim to improve the quality of teachers in basic education schools, JICA said. This will include providing continuing education for teachers through education colleges in Myanmar.
There are various ways in which Japan supports education in Myanmar other than just building schools. They aid in developing and improving curricula, provide opportunities for skill development, offering scholarships to study in Japan, and supporting Japanese language education, according to JICA.
Myanmar and Japan enjoy a long-standing strong bilateral relationship across a wide range of political, economic, social and cultural spheres. Japan’s economic cooperation with Myanmar dates back to 1954. Throughout their history of the bilateral cooperation, education has always been a major area of focus. Japan sees education as an important element for improving people’s lives and livelihoods.
Japan is fully committed to supporting the implementation of Myanmar’s National Education Strategic Plan for 2016-2021. Along with relevant ministries and other development partners, the Japanese Embassy and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are active participants in the education sector coordination meetings.
Since May 2014 the JICA has been supporting the Ministry of Education with the development of a new curriculum, particularly the development of new textbooks through “Project for Curriculum Reform at Primary Level of Basic Education (CREATE project).”
The Project for Curriculum Reform at Primary Level of Basic Education in Myanmar is a part of the National Comprehensive Development Plan. Assessment committees empowered under the nationwide plan have recommended the curriculum be reformed.
In 2013 JICA offered ¥1.35 billion ($13.5 million) towards the advancement of engineering in two technology universities in Yangon and Mandalay over a five-year period from 5 October 2013 to 5 October 2018.
Ref: https://www.mmbiztoday.com/articles/japan-supports-myanmar-education