IT’S ALL ABOUT FAHAFAHANA: BACK TO SCHOOL IN MADAGASCAR
Madagascar
UWS Ankazamafinto School
The first day back to school is a day worth celebrating. Sharpened pencils and empty notebooks. School shoes and school bag ready by the front door. A uniform that you are either growing into or growing out of.
We all remember the joys (and first day nerves) of going back to school. And yet the first day has never just been about the new teachers, familiar classrooms and old friends. It has always been about fahafahana. That means opportunity to you and I – unless like Jiery, you also speak Malagasy.
Jiery*, a bright-eyed 14-year-old, once spent his days tending to the fields and caring for his siblings. But with the support of UWS, his life has taken a remarkable turn. Now, Jiery is thriving in school, eager to learn and dreaming of a future beyond the rice fields.
As we start the new school year across our schools in Madagascar, we’re sharing Jiery’s journey with UWS and the changes his father, Sambisoa, has noticed since we began working with his community.
Meet Jiery
“My name is Jiery and I am 14 years old. I used to be in the Grade 3 class, but now I am so happy because I’m moving into the Grade 4 class. French is my favourite subject because I love reading.
I am very motivated to study in this school. I appreciate the teaching of my teachers and they make learning enjoyable. My biggest dream is to become a soldier when I grow up. It is a heartfelt wish because I want to protect my family. To achieve this dream, I know I must give my best every day in school.
I also motivate my friends to study – we all understand the benefits of education: having a job when we grow up, being able to provide for ourselves and receiving a salary in the future”.
Sambisoa’s Perspective: A Brighter Future
“I’m Sambisoa, Jiery’s father and a farmer specialising in rice cultivation. This work sustains my family, but the rice field I currently own will not be enough for my children in the future. I have five children and I educate them so that they can have a better future.
There have been remarkable improvements in education here since the arrival of UWS. There are real changes in the children, even the youngest in kindergarten are all learning very well. One of my children, who was sick and had to interrupt his studies, is still able to keep up thanks to the quality of the teaching. There are no more children herding the zebus here because they all attend school.
The education of our children presents immense advantages. Educated people do not suffer; they can find good jobs, count well when selling, and travel far without getting lost. And if my children all find jobs, they will be able to help me when I can no longer work”.
Education is more than just learning. It’s a catalyst for change.
The first day of school is a milestone for children worldwide, marking the start of a journey filled with learning, growth, and opportunity. Yet, for many children in Madagascar, access to education remains a challenge. UWS is committed to changing this narrative by providing quality education and empowering communities.
By investing in education, we are investing in the future of Madagascar. Every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. By supporting our work, you’re helping to create a world where education is accessible to all.
*name changed in line with our child protection and safeguarding policies.
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