The Government of Pakistan and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed two major development programs aimed at transforming STEM education and strengthening the nursing and health workforce in Punjab.
The agreements include:
- Responsive, Ready, and Resilient STEM Secondary Education in Punjab Program—USD 107 million (including a USD 7 million ADF grant)
- Punjab Nursing and Health Workforce Reform Program—USD 150 million
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Secretary Economic Affairs Division Muhammad Humair Karim appreciated ADB’s longstanding partnership and its support for Pakistan’s social development priorities. He said both programs will play a critical role in strengthening education and healthcare systems, enabling long-term, inclusive growth.
Officials noted that the STEM Education Program—to be implemented between 2026 and 2030—aims to modernize learning environments, improve inclusivity, and prepare students for a rapidly evolving technological world.
The Punjab Nursing Program, meanwhile, will expand the pool of trained nurses and enhance service delivery across the province. The initiative includes the establishment of three Centers of Excellence in Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi.
ADB Country Director Emma Fan praised Pakistan’s commitment to improving human development indicators and said both result-based programs will upgrade the ecosystems in education and health sectors.
Senior officials from the Punjab School Education Department and the Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education Department also highlighted the transformative potential of these initiatives and reaffirmed the province’s commitment to effective implementation.
