Skopje, 21 February 2025 (MIA) – Two new grant agreements under the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) worth €114,970, were signed Friday by the Japanese Ambassador to the country, Setsuko Kawahara, and the representatives of the recipient institutions-Healthcare Centre Vevchani and the St. Kliment Ohridski primary school in Bitola.

During the agreement signing ceremony, held at the Embassy of Japan in Skopje, Ambassador Kawahara underscored that this assistance further strengthens the friendship between the two countries and reaffirms Japan’s commitment to supporting improvements in the country’s healthcare and education system.

Through these grants, Healthcare Centre Vevchani, will receive a computed radiography system, while the roof of the St. Kliment Ohridski primary school in Bitola will be renovated.

"We are pleased to contribute to improving healthcare services for citizens and enhancing learning environment for children in schools. Within the Western Balkans Cooperation Initiative, Japan remains strongly committed to supporting North Macedonia’s economic and social development, as well as its path toward EU accession," Ambassador Kawahara said.

On behalf of the two institutions, the agreements were signed by Renata Peshinoska, Director of Healthcare Centre Vevchani, and Predrag Sozovski, Director of the St. Kliment Ohridski primary school, who expressed their gratitude for the support. They emphasized that this is the second time both institutions have been recipients of Japanese assistance.

Peshinoska noted that the healthcare facility provides services to around 25,000 residents from the municipality of Vevchani and parts of Struga, with healthcare units in multiple locations. Additionally, its specialist and consultative services are used by citizens from the surrounding municipalities, including Debar, Mavrovo and Rostusha, Centar Zhupa, Ohrid, Resen, Kichevo, and Makedonski Brod.

"This equipment will help us digitize some of the devices donated by the Japanese people in 2007. Today, thanks to Japan’s generosity once again, this project will enable timely and accurate diagnostics, significantly improving healthcare services and the safety of both patients and staff. Furthermore, with the new digitalized equipment, more patients will be able to schedule medical examinations on time," Peshinoska said.

Sozovski stated that, with this second grant and the scale of the financial support received, Japan is the most important contributor to improving educational process at their school, apart from North Macedonia itself.

“This donation will enhance the quality of education, ensuring a safer and more secure learning environment for our students,” he said.

Since 1996, Japan has funded 186 projects in healthcare, education and environmental protection through the GGP scheme, working closely with local institutions. The total value of Japan’s assistance to North Macedonia has now surpassed €9.4 million.

Photo: MIA