The Education Above All (EAA) Foundation, supported by the Qatar Fund for Development (QFFD), has committed a $100 million grant to co-finance education projects with the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The partnership, aimed at improving access to education, will focus on disadvantaged children, youth, and girls, particularly at the post-secondary and university levels, as well as in skills training.
This collaboration targets a total education investment of $250 million, combining $150 million in ADB loans with the $100 million grant from the EAA Foundation. The initiative aims to tackle barriers to education, such as poverty, discrimination, and conflict, and to integrate climate change into education at the secondary level, along with technical and vocational training programs.
The partnership will also help young people gain skills that are essential for jobs in the green economy. Additionally, the two organisations plan to support start-ups and green business incubation programs, while building youth capacity in the climate economy.
At the Doha Forum 2024, the agreement was signed by Fatima Yasmin, ADB Vice-President for Sectors and Themes, and Mohammed Saad Al Kubaisi, Acting CEO of the EAA Foundation. This five-year agreement seeks to drive meaningful change in the education sector.
“Every child and youth deserves the right to education and skills that will help them thrive in future jobs, and this expanded partnership will make a tangible impact in the lives of vulnerable children, including refugees and those internally displaced,” said Fatima Yasmin. “By collaborating with EAA Foundation, we can help to realize a more inclusive future for young people in our region through access to quality education.”
Mohammed Saad Al Kubaisi also highlighted the significance of the partnership, saying, “Our partnership with ADB marks a pivotal moment in advancing education and skills development for those who need it most. By combining ADB’s expertise and resources with our commitment to empowering vulnerable communities, we aim to create meaningful opportunities that enable beneficiaries to unlock their full potential. Together, we aim to provide not only access to education but also the skills needed to thrive in today’s rapidly changing world. This collaboration is an important step in building a more inclusive, resilient future for all.”
This initiative is set to create lasting impacts for young people, equipping them with the necessary skills to succeed in the evolving job market while also addressing critical issues like climate change and social inequality.