ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the Asian Development Bank have finalized and signed development agreements totaling 257 million dollars.
The agreements were signed by Secretary Economic Affairs Muhammad Hameer Karim and ADB Country Director Emma Fan, while the Punjab Secretary of School Education and the Secretary of Specialized Healthcare signed on behalf of the Punjab government.
According to the spokesperson of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, two major programs will be launched to improve the education and health sectors in Punjab.
The ADB has approved a 107 million dollar STEM education program for the province.
The spokesperson added that modern STEM labs and teacher training will bring transformative improvements to secondary education.
Additionally, 150 million dollars in support will be provided for the Punjab Nursing and Health Workforce Reform Program, under which three Centers of Excellence for nursing will be established in Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi. The spokesperson stated that ADB’s assistance will serve as a milestone in achieving sustainable social development.
ADB’s Country Director said that both programs are results-oriented and part of broader systemic reforms.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) plays a major role in Pakistan’s development by supporting key sectors such as energy, transportation, education, health, water management, and climate resilience.
Through financial assistance, policy advice, and technical expertise, ADB helps Pakistan strengthen its infrastructure, improve governance systems, and promote sustainable economic growth.
The bank provides both loans and grants for major national and provincial development programs, focusing on long-term reforms that boost economic stability and reduce poverty.
In recent years, ADB has funded projects aimed at modernizing education through STEM initiatives, upgrading health services, improving road networks, enhancing irrigation systems, and promoting clean energy solutions.
The bank also works closely with federal and provincial governments to support institutional reforms, disaster preparedness, and social protection programs.
Overall, ADB’s partnership with Pakistan continues to contribute significantly to improving public services, strengthening human capital, and supporting inclusive development across the country.
