DUSHANBE, February 24, 2010, Asia-Plus  -- Japan allocates US$ 95,425 for “The Project for Reconstruction of the Flood Damaged School in Panj District” under Japanese Grant Assistance for Grass–roots Human Security Projects (GGP), according to the Japanese Embassy in Dushanbe.

Constructed in 1980, secondary school No.24 is the only one in Tajiksoi village in Namuna Jamoat, Panj District, with 350 students and 21 teachers.  On May 14, 2009 mudflow caused by huge flood washed out and destroyed the school and the village itself. Evacuated students are staying with relatives to go to school in another village, or even give up going school.

In order to solve the situation and accelerate the reconstruction of the flood-damaged area, the Government of Japan will assist to build a new school No.24 in a safer place allocated by the Republic of the Tajikistan to rebuild Tajiksoi village.  In addition, school equipment such as desks and chairs will be provided. 350 students from Tojiksoy village will study in the new school. More than 21 teachers are expected to find teaching position.

After the implementation of the project, students can study in a safe and sanitary environment, thus educational level will be improved.

The project will ensure children’s rights to quality education in an appropriate educational environment. The Government of Japan is responding to the Early Recovery Appeal by Rapid Emergency Assessment and Coordination Team (REACT) issued on August 12, 2009 towards meeting the urgent demand caused by natural disaster in Tajikistan.

The Grant Assistance for Grass-roots Human Security Projects (GGP) provides support to projects in the human security sectors at the grassroots level.  The GGP is provided to local governments, NGOs, and educational and medical institutions in developing countries.  The GGP has extended more than US$ 16.4 million for 244 projects in Tajikistan since 1996.