A delegation of japan international cooperation agency (jica) met with minister for women and children affairs and social welfare abu zafar md. zahid hossain at his office here today: The meeting focused on a variety of mutual interests such as humanitarian assistance for Rohingya refugees, women’s education, gender equality, prevention of gender-based violence, women’s economic empowerment, adolescent healthcare, and other significant issues.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, JICA Chief Representative in Bangladesh Takahashi Junko led the delegation. The discussions emphasized the establishment of specialized schools for children with special needs and the strengthening of DNA laboratory activities. The minister described Japan and JICA as ‘trusted friends’ of Bangladesh, thanking them for their partnership in the country’s development over the last 50 years, and expressing hope for continued cooperation.
The minister highlighted the government’s efforts to build an inclusive and humane Bangladesh by engaging all societal sections, including women and children. Plans are underway to expand training centers at the upazila level to improve the livelihoods and skills of grassroots women. He sought JICA’s technical assistance in implementing these initiatives, which received a positive response from the JICA delegation.
During the discussion on social safety nets, the minister underscored the Family Card initiative aimed at economically empowering women, describing it as a sustainable social investment rather than a government expense. He elaborated on how women use the funds for nutritious food, essential goods, and education and healthcare expenses for their children while building small savings.
The minister also pointed out the global demand for skilled caregivers, expressing Bangladesh’s intent to train caregivers according to international standards and create employment opportunities abroad, seeking Japan’s continued cooperation. Additionally, he requested Japanese support for exporting traditional handicrafts made by rural Bangladeshi women to the Japanese markets.
JICA Chief Representative Takahashi Junko briefed the minister on JICA’s development activities in Bangladesh. She confirmed JICA’s active involvement in programs for women and children’s welfare, skill development, and support for marginalized communities in the Cox’s Bazar region, as well as agriculture-based training for women and humanitarian activities in the Rohingya camps. Takahashi expressed JICA’s commitment to strengthening mutual cooperation in human-resource development and women’s empowerment.
The JICA delegation appreciated the various initiatives undertaken by the Bangladesh government to enhance social protection.