Education in Madagascar

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Diego Suarez Antsiranana urban public primary school (EPP) Madagascar

Besakana traditional Merina andriana house Rova Antananarivo Madagascar

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Colonial school in Madagascar

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Students form lines in school courtyard in Madagascar

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Students doing group work with slates in Antsiranana Madagascar

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Ministry of Education Madagascar

Education in Madagascar has a history that stretches back to the 19th century. The system underwent significant changes following independence from France in 1960. The Malagasy government has since made education a priority, with a focus on increasing access and improving quality. Despite these efforts, the education sector faces challenges including limited resources, teacher shortages, and high dropout rates.

History

The history of Education in Madagascar can be traced back to the pre-colonial era, where traditional education was informal and centered around community values, skills, and knowledge passed down through generations. The introduction of formal education began in the 19th century with the arrival of European missionaries who established the first schools. During the French colonial period (1896-1960), the education system was significantly influenced by French educational models, languages, and curricula.

Structure

The Malagasy education system is structured into several levels: pre-primary, primary, lower secondary, upper secondary, and tertiary. Education is compulsory for children between the ages of 6 and 14, encompassing primary and the first cycle of secondary education.

Pre-primary Education

Pre-primary education in Madagascar is not compulsory and caters to children aged 3 to 6 years. It is provided in both public and private institutions.

Primary Education

Primary education lasts for five years (ages 6 to 11) and culminates in a national examination that students must pass to progress to secondary education.

Secondary Education

Secondary education is divided into two cycles: the first cycle (lower secondary) lasts for four years (ages 12 to 15), and the second cycle (upper secondary) lasts for three years (ages 16 to 18). Students who complete the second cycle can sit for the baccalauréat exam, which is necessary for entry into tertiary education.

Tertiary Education

Tertiary education in Madagascar is offered at universities and other higher education institutions. It includes undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs.

Challenges

The education sector in Madagascar faces several challenges. These include insufficient funding, which affects the quality of education and resources available to students and teachers. There is also a significant shortage of qualified teachers, especially in rural areas. High dropout rates are another concern, with poverty being a major factor that forces children to leave school to work and support their families.

Government Initiatives

The Malagasy government has launched various initiatives to address these challenges, focusing on improving access to education, enhancing the quality of teaching, and increasing the retention rate. Programs aimed at building more schools, training teachers, and providing financial support to disadvantaged students are part of these efforts.

Conclusion

Education in Madagascar has made significant strides since independence, with concerted efforts to improve access and quality. However, the sector still faces considerable challenges that require ongoing attention and resources. The government's commitment to education is crucial in overcoming these obstacles and ensuring that all Malagasy children have the opportunity to receive a quality education.