According to a press release issued by Australian Embassy in Kathmandu, the Australian aid managed by Australian Agency for International Development will focus on strengthening basic education, enhanced healthcare and improved access to clean water in Nepal. [break]
Earlier, Australian Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd had during his telephonic conversation with Prime Minister Jhalanath Khanal said that that Australia would double its development assistance to Nepal.
“Australia remains committed to supporting Nepal to achieve the MDG target for universal primary education. Australian aid will help keep more children in school, improve completion rates and strengthen education planning system,” the statement quoted Australian Ambassador to Nepal Susan Grace as saying.
The statement said an increase in health funding will also assist Nepal to strengthen its national health systems, reduce the number of women who die needlessly during pregnancy or childbirth and improve the nutritional status of children and women.
Among other things, Australia will continue to support enterprise development to improve livelihoods, create job opportunities and raise household incomes.
Additionally, Australia will provide 22 scholarships to Nepal in 2012. “The scholarships are designed to help promote knowledge, education links and develop the skills of the Nepali people so they can contribute to development in their home communities,” the statement further said.
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