JFY2011 GGP “The Project for Construction of Gymnasium for Airai Elementary School”
2026/3/17
The Follow-Up
On March 5, 2026, the Grassroots Projects (GGP) Coordinator of the Embassy of Japan visited Airai Elementary School and met with Principal Norma Mersai. The visit was conducted under the follow-up to “The Project for Construction of Gymnasium for Airai Elementary School.”
Through the Government of Japan’s GGP, Airai elementary school completed the construction of a new gymnasium on May 22, 2013, with a total grant of USD 98,095.
Previously, the school did not have a gymnasium. But the constructed facility has enabled physical education classes to be held regardless of weather conditions, such as rain or strong sunlight. Thirteen years after its establishment, the gymnasium remains an essential space where students can learn actively and stay physically engaged. It is also used for school assemblies, PTA meetings, and other community events, contributing to the enrichment of local educational activities. The embassy hopes that the facility will continue to create an environment that broadens learning opportunities while providing occasions for cooperation and challenge for children.
Japan’s GGP was launched in Palau in 1999 to address grassroots development needs, including education, healthcare, and community welfare. This project marks the 35th of the 105 GGP projects implemented in Palau.
Through the Government of Japan’s GGP, Airai elementary school completed the construction of a new gymnasium on May 22, 2013, with a total grant of USD 98,095.
Previously, the school did not have a gymnasium. But the constructed facility has enabled physical education classes to be held regardless of weather conditions, such as rain or strong sunlight. Thirteen years after its establishment, the gymnasium remains an essential space where students can learn actively and stay physically engaged. It is also used for school assemblies, PTA meetings, and other community events, contributing to the enrichment of local educational activities. The embassy hopes that the facility will continue to create an environment that broadens learning opportunities while providing occasions for cooperation and challenge for children.
Japan’s GGP was launched in Palau in 1999 to address grassroots development needs, including education, healthcare, and community welfare. This project marks the 35th of the 105 GGP projects implemented in Palau.
The Handover Ceremony
On Wednesday, May 22, 2013, Ambassador of Japan Yoshiyuki Sadaoka formally handed over the reconstructed gymnasium to Airai Elementary School (AES). The Handing Over Ceremony was held at the newly built AES gymnasium in Ked, Airai, along with the Promotional Ceremony. The ceremony to hand over the gymnasium to the AES was attended by the President of Palau Tommy Remengesau Jr., Airai Governor Victoria Kanai, Senator Mason N. Whipps, Senator Phillip Reklai, Senator Arnold Oilouch, Senator Rukebai Inabo and Delegate Frank Kyota. Attendees for the Promotional Ceremony were also present.
Through Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Projects (GGP), the AES gymnasium was reconstructed in the total cost of $98,095. The new gymnasium is named “Kengo Gym” after the former Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Volunteer, Kengo Yoshizawa. Mr. Yoshizawa taught mathematics and physical education for two years at AES until March 2012 and contributed greatly in submitting the application for the GGP.
A roof was constructed above the existing basketball court, in order to enable physical education classes and other school events for students regardless of extreme heat or rain. By increasing the opportunity to have sports activities, it is expected to promote student’s health in school life. Furthermore, the constructions of the gymnasium projects are implemented for the community to benefit at the same time. Therefore, it is expected that approximately 3,000 residents in Airai State would also benefit from the Kengo Gym.
AES is the fourth school to receive GGP funding for its gymnasium after Koror Elementary School in 2006, Palau Mission Academy in 2012 and Bethania High School in May 17, 2013.