The Asian Development Bank announced a major funding decision on Saturday, confirming that ADB approves $381m for 3 projects focused on agriculture, education, and health services in Punjab. The new projects aim to support economic growth and improve public service delivery across the province.
According to the official press release, ADB approves $381m for 3 projects that will help modernise key sectors that directly impact millions of people. ADB Country Director for Pakistan Emma Fan said the investments would support Punjab’s long-term development. She noted that progress in agriculture, education, and health is essential for strengthening the province’s role in Pakistan’s economy.
Fan added that the funding will help modernise agriculture, upgrade skills, and improve livelihoods for communities across Punjab.
As part of the package, a $120 million concessional loan and a $4 million grant have been allocated for the Punjab Climate-Resilient and Low-Carbon Agriculture Mechanisation Project. This initiative aims to speed up the shift towards climate-friendly farming. It will support 220,000 rural households by introducing modern machinery and providing new income opportunities. The project will also train 15,000 women in agricultural skills.
Another major component of the funding is the approval of $107 million for the Responsive, Ready, and Resilient STEM Secondary Education Programme. This includes a $7 million grant and a $100 million concessional loan. The programme aims to improve STEM education across Punjab by upgrading facilities and ensuring better access to quality learning for students.
The third project includes a $150 million concessional loan for the Punjab Nursing and Health Workforce Reform Programme. This initiative aims to strengthen nursing education, build disaster-resilient training facilities, and support digital systems for health workforce management. The programme will also develop three centres of excellence in Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi.
In other news read more about: World Bank Lauds Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz as ‘Climate Change Warrior’
With these decisions, ADB approves $381m for 3 projects that are expected to contribute to long-term development and help Punjab meet both local and international workforce demands.
