January 25, 2010
 Japan's Assistance for the Alleviation of Difficulties of Working Children
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The Government of Japan has decided to extend financial assistance of sixty eight thousand, seven hundred and six US Dollars (68,706 USD) equivalent to approximately four million, nine hundred and ninety four thousand, nine hundred and twenty six Nepalese Rupees (4,994,926 Nrs) to Shapla Neer-Citizens' Committee in Japan. This is part of the Overseas Support in Japan's Fiscal Year 2009 under the Grant Assistance for Japanese NGO Projects Scheme of the Government of Japan. Shapla Neer is to implement the Project for the "Alleviation of Difficulties of Working Children" in Patan City, Lalitpur District in coordination with a local NGO - The Center to Assist and Protect Child Rights of Nepal (CAPCRON).
The Grant Assistance for Japanese NGO Projects is a scheme to provide financial assistance for the implementation of social and economic development and emergency humanitarian assistance projects to be undertaken by Japanese NGOs in developing countries and regions.
The Grant Contract relating to this Project was signed and exchanged today between His Excellency Mr. Tatsuo MIZUNO, Ambassador of Japan to Nepal, and Ms. Yukiko FUJISAKI, Resident Representative of Shapla Neer - Nepal Office.
This Project aims to alleviate difficulties that working children are faced with in the rapidly urbanizing Kathmandu Valley, and to support them to protect their rights and livelihoods. It targets working children who suffer from exploitation and abuse by employers, and who have no opportunities for primary health care, and basic education. In the first phase in JFY 2008, under the same scheme, it made remarkable achievements in (1) providing opportunities for primary health care and education services through monthly health check and non-formal classes, (2) vocational training in driving and plumbing skills, and (3) rehabilitation services to help the children reintegrate into their families.
Under this second phase, the grant is to be utilized exclusively to support children's minimum health care and basic educational services. In addition, it is also expected that employers, parents, and local residents, realizing the seriousness of the issue, will participate in the Project, and thus also help improve the environment for these children.
Speaking on the occasion of the Grant signing, H.E. Mr. MIZUNO expressed his hope that the Project contributes to enhancing the welfare of children and ensuring the quality of their life. He further expressed his belief that the project, as a Japan-supported project for the support of working children's rights and welfare, could further strengthen the friendly relationship between Japan and Nepal.
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