RIYADH: The Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen has signed an agreement with Yemen’s Social Fund for Development to implement nine health and education projects across several governorates.

The agreement, finalized on Sunday, follows last week’s announcement of a range of initiatives aimed at supporting vital services and strengthening Yemeni state institutions.

The deal was signed by SDRPY General Supervisor Ambassador Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Jaber and Social Fund Executive Director Hossam Qaid, in the presence of Yemen’s ministers of public health, education, and planning and international cooperation, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Four healthcare projects will be delivered in Lahj, Taiz and Al-Dhale’a, including the construction of rural hospitals in Al-Mawasit in Taiz and in Al-Dhale’a, alongside maternal and child health facilities and an obstetric emergency center in Ras Al-Ara, Lahj.

The facilities will provide services including emergency care, inpatient treatment, maternity services, laboratories and radiology.

Five education projects will see model schools constructed in Marib, Lahj, Al-Dhale’a, Shabwa and Abyan. As well as science and computer laboratories, they will feature sports facilities, staff offices and modern learning environments, with designs adapted to support students with disabilities.

SDRPY said the healthcare projects aim to improve maternal and child health, expand access to specialized medical services and strengthen emergency response capabilities, while also creating employment opportunities.

The education initiatives are intended to raise teaching standards, support student development and enhance practical skills.

To date, the SDRPY has delivered more than 268 projects across the country, spanning education, health, water, energy, transport, agriculture and fisheries, as well as capacity building and support for Yemen’s government institutions.