In a bid to become a model of inclusive development via digital technology, the government of Madagascar is collaborating with both local and global partners. Several initiatives are currently in progress to achieve this goal.

Madagascar’s Digital Development, Posts and Telecommunications Minister, Tahina Razafindramalo, launched “Antananarivo 42”, a tuition-free institution aimed at equipping the youth with essential digital and programming skills, on Tuesday, April 2.

Backed by the Axian group, this initiative addresses Madagascar’s increasing demand for expertise in areas such as big data, artificial intelligence, web development, network and systems administration, and cybersecurity, as highlighted by the French embassy in Madagascar.

The inaugural batch of 196 students will undergo a three-year program, learning various programming languages and working on practical projects, often in partnership with associated companies. The objective is to effectively prepare them for the IT job market.

Official data indicates that the sector accounts for over 30,000 formal jobs in Madagascar, with the job market’s demands continually changing. Consequently, the Ministry of Digital Development, Posts and Telecommunications plans significant investment in digital profession training, including the imminent establishment of the National Digital Institute, projected to train over 3,000 individuals annually.

With the inauguration of Antananarivo 42, Madagascar joins Morocco as the second African country in the global 42 network. This network, initially established by French billionaire Xavier Niel, comprises 54 campuses across 31 countries, offering innovative, free programming and IT development training. The schools admit students without any diploma prerequisites or age restrictions.

Samira Njoya