Five young inmates at the Toliara prison have successfully passed their Certificat d’Études Primaires Élémentaires (CEPE) during the 2025-2026 academic session, an achievement made possible by the “Mafonja Project” for educational reintegration.
These youths are being held at the Toliara prison for various offenses. During the 2025-2026 school year, five boys attended classes and registered for the CEPE exam alongside approximately 4,100 other candidates.
Last Tuesday, on the day of the examination, the five young inmates sat for their tests at the CEG Centre in Toliara, under the escort of prison guards. When official results were released last Saturday, all five were confirmed to have passed, earning their primary education certificates.
Future Prospects
The pass rate for the Toliara I school district stands at 94.92%. This success was achieved through inter-institutional collaboration. Whega Danitsaike, head of the Toliara I school district, explained: “This project aims at social reintegration and academic guidance for those in detention. It is led by the Ministry of National Education, the Ministry of Population and Solidarity, and the Prison Administration. It was launched in 2024 with the NGO Humanity & Inclusion under the name ‘Mafonja Project.’ Although that specific initiative has ended, we have taken the responsibility to continue it.”
Classes were held throughout the school year within the detention facility, depending on teacher availability. Notably, some inmates who are also teachers helped conduct lessons for the students preparing for the CEPE. The regional directorate of the Ministry of National Education provided the necessary teaching materials. As the five students continue to serve their sentences, Danitsaike concludes that their future academic paths depend on continued coordination between the ministries, the Prison Administration, and various technical and financial partners.
By Mirana Ihariliva
Captured & Published at: 2026-06-23 06:31:00 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/06/toliara-des-detenus-mineurs-reussissent.html