Amman: Ambassador of Japan to Jordan, ASARI Hideki, visited Nuzha Boys and Girls Schools on Thursday to observe the summer camp activities organized by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) Jordan Field Office. This initiative is supported by the Government of Japan.
According to Jordan News Agency, the summer camp, launched in 2023, marks the fourth consecutive year of such activities at UNRWA schools across Jordan. It aims to provide Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) and learning support sessions to students. During the visit, Asari received a briefing on UNRWA's recent operations and programs from Kunal Dhar, Deputy Director of UNRWA Affairs, Programs, Jordan.
Asari emphasized the essential services provided by UNRWA to Palestine refugees across the region, including Jordan. He acknowledged the challenges faced by UNRWA in recent years and expressed Japan's support for improving the agency's governance and ensuring neutrality. Asari assured UNRWA of Japan's continued support to sustain the lives of vulnerable people through the agency's efforts. He also highlighted UNRWA's role in promoting regional stability amid the current situation.
Kunal Dhar expressed delight in welcoming Ambassador Asari to the Summer Camp, noting the positive impact of Japan's support on Palestine refugee children. Japan's partnership enables children to enjoy a safe environment that prepares them academically and emotionally for school. Dhar highlighted Japan's longstanding investment in education, mental health, and social protection, which continues to benefit Palestine Refugee children.
Dhar further noted that between April 2026 and March 2027, the Government of Japan is allocating $3.33 million to UNRWA Jordan Office. This funding is for the 'Mental Health, Psychosocial, and Humanitarian Support for Palestine Refugees in Jordan' project, providing basic needs through cash assistance and shelter replacement, and enhancing access to MHPSS services for refugee students. The initiative includes recruiting additional school counselors, delivering MHPSS activities, and conducting assessments to better understand student needs and inform future interventions.