As post-secondary school orientation approaches, choosing a field of study is a major challenge for young people. Marcella Julie Rajaonarison, director of CIDST at Tsimbazaza, discusses the realities of the job market.

What are the current realities of study sectors and professional fields offering the best employment prospects after secondary school?

The arrival of many young people on the job market occurs in a context marked by the strong predominance of the informal sector, as well as youth underemployment and unemployment. Among the main difficulties are the lack of adequate training and professional experience. The mismatch between qualifications acquired in the school system and the real needs of the job market remains a major problem.

Which sectors currently present the strongest recruitment and professional advancement possibilities in Madagascar?

The sectors currently offering the most significant prospects include digital technology and ICT, including Business Process Outsourcing and call centers, textiles, particularly in free trade zones, tourism and hospitality, as well as agribusiness and agro-food. These fields offer recruitment and professional advancement opportunities for young people with appropriate training.

How can a young secondary school graduate choose a field that matches both their skills, interests, and job market needs?

The choice should begin with self-assessment of strengths and weaknesses. Young people should then research real job market needs and different training possibilities: vocational or university training, short certifications, or other pathways. It is also recommended to seek guidance from a school and career counselor (COSP), particularly through the Ministry of Technical Education and Vocational Training, the SESAME project, or CIDST.

Student and career orientation fairs are also important opportunities to gather information directly from institutions and professionals. Organized by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research through CIDST and the General Directorate of Higher Education, these fairs bring together public and private universities as well as accredited institutions. In Antananarivo, the next Student Fair will be held on August 27, 28, and 29 at J.-J. Rabearivelo High School. Regional events are also planned, including Toamasina on August 28 and 29 in front of the town hall, and Toliara on September 17, 18, and 19.

Young people can also contact the guidance services of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MESUPRES), universities, DGES, and CIDST, or speak directly with working professionals.

Which new or emerging professions and sectors should particularly attract the attention of young secondary school graduates in the coming years?

Digital technology and ICT, textiles, tourism and hospitality, as well as agribusiness and agro-food remain sectors to watch. Other fields requiring higher education also present prospects, including mining, construction and civil engineering, health, commerce and retail, logistics, and renewable energy.

What advice would you give to secondary school graduates hesitating between a highly sought-after field and training matching their passion?

Avoid extreme choices. A field chosen solely for passion, without sufficient job prospects, can lead to underemployment or costly career changes. Conversely, training chosen only because it is in demand, without real motivation, can lead to dropout, demotivation, poor performance, or professional burnout. Young people who succeed best are those who find an intersection between the two, or who gradually build a bridge between them. I also recommend not following only advice from those around you or giving in to social pressure. A choice that is not truly owned can lead to failure. Conducting a career assessment and seeking professional guidance remain essential to help each graduate build a path consistent with their abilities, interests, and job market realities.

Cassie Ramiandrasoa