On Wednesday, the Grand Amphitheater of EGS/FDSP at the University of Antananarivo hosted a conference-debate titled “From the classroom to public action with the EU: from Global Gateway to future opportunities.”
The event, organized at the initiative of the deans of the Faculty of Law and Political Science (FDSP) and the Faculty of Economics, Management, and Sociology (EGS), provided students with a platform to discuss career prospects, entrepreneurship, and international mobility programs.
Moderated by the deans, Prof. Lova Randriatavy (FDSP) and Prof. Fano Andriamahefazafy (EGS), the conference featured insights from Roland Kobia, Ambassador of the European Union to Madagascar and the Comoros, as well as Fanja Razakaboana, President of the Madagascar Women Entrepreneurs Group (GFEM) and Chair of the Board of the University of Antananarivo.
The meeting aimed to raise student awareness regarding available opportunities and prepare them for future professional integration. Speakers emphasized that in an ever-changing landscape, a degree alone no longer guarantees employment. Practical experience gained through internships, projects, and associative engagement are now considered major assets.
In his address, Roland Kobia highlighted various EU-supported programs for youth, notably Erasmus+, which allows students to pursue part of their studies abroad. According to the Ambassador, nearly 150 Malagasy students benefit from this program annually, noting that international experience fosters open-mindedness and enriches professional skills.
Spirit of Initiative
“The difference is made through experience, because everyone can obtain a degree,” he stated, encouraging students to develop professional networks and acquire practical skills.
For her part, Fanja Razakaboana stressed the importance of commitment and initiative. She highlighted the essential role of internships in entering the professional world, as well as the development of incubation centers and mechanisms designed to support youth in realizing their projects.
“If young people are not inspired, how can we encourage them to do the same?” she asked, urging students to believe in their potential and not wait for perfection to take action.
“Don’t wait to be perfect. You must dare and be willing to risk failure,” she added, reminding the audience that failure is an integral part of learning and building a career path.
Through this conference, the University of Antananarivo and the European Union reaffirmed their commitment to supporting young people in achieving better professional integration. The discussions delivered a powerful message: success no longer relies solely on a degree, but also on skills, experience, and the ability to seize opportunities.
By Lucia Rabarijaona
Captured & Published at: 2026-06-25 06:01:03 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/06/vie-associative-lunion-europeenne.html