Kyrgyz National Information Agency KABAR, February 3, 2009
Minister of Economic Development and Trade of Kyrgyz Republic (MEDT) Akylbek Japarov held a meeting with the Head of Aga Khan Development Network for the Kyrgyz Republic Nurjehan Mawani yesterday, MEDT press service reported today.
In the course of the meeting A. Japarov expressed his gratitude to AKDN representatives for their input in the socio-economic development of Naryn Oblast and readiness of the government for a closer cooperation.
On behalf of AKDN, Mrs. N. Mawani extended appreciation to the Minister and MEDT for fruitful cooperation and mentioned plans for expansion of activities in educational sphere in Bishkek. She familiarized MEDT with a preliminary integrated development strategy for Naryn Oblast, in particular in the sphere of professional and vocational education, health, rural development, microfinance, financial service, civil society and culture.
N. Mawani suggested setting up MEDT/AKD Working Group to implement further joint activities.
A. Japarov endorsed the initiative of N. Mawani suggesting consultancy in evaluation of the program. The Minister stressed the importance of developing a joint integrated cluster development strategy for Naryn Oblast and underlined the significance of educational projects of AKDN that will enable the country to meet international standards of education.
In addition A. Japarov offered Kyrgyz Investment and Credit Bank (KICB) CEO K.Y. Choi to join finical efforts together with Aiyl Bank. It will enable setting up of a microfinance agency in Naryn Oblast to develop the mountainous region and provide financial support to University of Central Asia alumni.
KICB CEO K.Y.Choi told in his turn that plans of the bank stand for increase of AKDN crediting to hit 50mil KGS in 2009.
UCA Director Bohdan Krawchenko gave account of the progress and plans of the university. More than 2000 students have been enrolled from 2006-2008. Currently the university trains guides under Mountain Tour Operator Certified Program, 342 pupils from Naryn Oblast study under English in the Villages program, 105 apprentices are trained in plasterer/tile setter, bricklayer/mason, construction carpenter under TVET Program.
Following the meeting it was decided to set up MEDT/AKDN Working Group to formulate an integrated development strategy for Naryn Oblast. (M. Mamatova)
It is worth mentioning, that KICB and UCA form an integral part of AKDN.
Ismailimail 