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afrol.com, 23 August - An agreement between South Africa and Japan was signed yesterday in support of the Market Theatre. Dr Ben Ngubane, Minister of Arts, Culture, Science and Technology and the Japanese ambassador signed the agreement in presence of John Kani of the Market Theatre and Doreen Nteta of the National Arts Council. Most recently, the Japanese Government allocated a grant in aid of R2 million Rand (460.000 US$), for lighting and technical equipment for the theatre. This is the first time that the Japanese government has allocated this particular type of grant to the Ministry of Arts and Culture, making it a milestone in the development of the cultural relations between Japan and South Africa. In addition, South Africa has been involved in a number of other meaningful programmes with Japan, for instance having access to the skills of an expert in science and technology policy spending two years in the ministry. There are also a number of other initiatives between Japan and various South African government Ministries. Although the grant in aid is specifically for the Market Theatre, it is a government to government agreement that backs it. The Market Theatre will, itself, sign an agreement with an agent in Japan who will buy the equipment in Japan and, in addition, install the equipment. The importance of this grant in aid is great, Minister Ngubane said to the ambassador. Artists will now be able to use high tech lighting equipment not previously available to them. The Market Theatre will now be in a position to deliver enhanced community benefits and a technical support service as well. Currently, students at the Market are designing a Technical Travelling Unit that will be able to be used for training in a number of different communities. The Technical unit will be easy to move, easy to use and easy to install. South Africa and Japan have been involved in various exchange programmes since 1996. Examples are the prestigious Ship for World Youth and also the Japan Youth Village, both of which were notable successes. South Africa's contribution to these activities has been recognised. Source: Office of the Minister of Arts, Culture, Science and Technology of South Africa
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