The Government of India has gifted a fleet of six school buses to the Government of Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, as part of its efforts to support education access in the Global South. The handover ceremony took place on April 10, 2025, in Sao Tome.
In response to a request from the Government of Sao Tome and Principe for assistance in making school education more accessible, India has provided these buses to reinforce the country's school transport fleet. This initiative aims to provide safer commutes for students, reduce education costs for families, and facilitate access to school education.
The gift is part of India's development assistance to the Global South, highlighting its commitment to strengthening ties with friendly nations like Sao Tome and Principe. The two countries enjoy close and friendly relations, and this gesture is a testament to their ongoing bilateral cooperation.
This move follows earlier assistance provided by the Government of India, which sent a consignment of medical supplies in January 2025. These essential medicines have been instrumental in bolstering the healthcare sector of Sao Tome and Principe.
The school buses are expected to make a significant difference in the lives of students and families in Sao Tome and Principe, providing them with better access to education and improving their overall quality of life.