A significant challenge remains in Madagascar: keeping young girls in the education system, primarily due to issues like early pregnancy, sexual and reproductive health challenges, and violence. To address this, ‘Youth Corners’ are being progressively established in technical and vocational high schools (LTP) to provide students with spaces for information, exchange, and recreation.
Institutions that already have these spaces, such as the LTP in Milenake (Toliara II), Mananjary, and Manakara, have received new equipment. On Monday, the Ministry of Technical Education and Vocational Training (METFP), in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and Norway, donated equipment for these ‘Youth Corners,’ which are expected to benefit approximately 1,500 young people.
Equipped with computers, internet access, sports balls, guitars, and pianos, these spaces are designed to be areas where students can gather, learn, and engage in various activities, ultimately fostering an environment conducive to continuing their education.
According to UNFPA data, nearly 32% of girls aged 15 to 19 in Madagascar have already begun their reproductive lives. Early pregnancies often lead to school dropouts, reducing opportunities for professional development. These ‘Youth Corners’ will also provide access to information on sexual and reproductive health and the prevention of gender-based violence, alongside civic education and skills development activities.
The partnership aims to both keep students in the education system and prepare them for professional integration. Ngoy Kishimba, acting representative of the UNFPA, emphasized the importance of enabling both girls and boys to remain in school and develop essential future skills. Minister Dr. Todisoa Andriamampandry stated that these initiatives will be gradually expanded to other technical and vocational high schools and training centers across the country.
Captured & Published at: 2026-09-15 12:38:35 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.2424.mg/enseignement-technique-des-coins-jeunes-dans-les-lycees-pour-aider-les-eleves-notamment-les-filles-a-rester-a-lecole/