2-year follow-up visit on Japan’s Grassroots Grant Assistance to Maris Stella School Auditorium

The Embassy of Japan conducted the 2-year follow-up visit to Maris Stella School. Through the Government of Japan’s Grassroots Grant Assistance (GGP) program, the school received timely support to construct its new auditorium with funding totaling $394,030 USD. Since its completion in May 2023, the facility continues to serve as a vital space for both school and community activities, highlighting Japan’s commitment to supporting education and the well-being of Palau’s local community.
 
We are pleased to share that the facility is in good condition and well maintained. During the visit, we had the opportunity to meet with Acting Principal Mr. Walker Umetaro and Development & Finance Officer Ms. Hasinta Tabelual, who highlighted the many ways the auditorium has improved school life and served the broader public.
 
The facility is actively used for school assemblies, PTA meetings, and seasonal events such as the annual Christmas Program, Catholic Schools Week, and the upcoming MSS promotional day in June for students advancing to higher education. In addition to school functions, the auditorium also served as a voting venue during the 2024 Palau General Elections and has supported public health and safety outreach by hosting MOJ police programs for students, MHHS Public Health Screening and Outreach programs, and Peace Winds’ free Kensing Health Screening Programs.
 
The Government of Japan’s GGP was launched in Palau in 1999, with the aim of addressing grassroots development needs, such as education, healthcare, and public welfare. For more information on the GGP program, contact the Embassy of Japan at 488-6455 or visit the GGP webpage: https://www.palau.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/about_ggp.html