Society
Axian Foundation: 250th School Inaugurated with Great Ceremony in Ambahikily
The Axian Foundation has reached a symbolic milestone with the inauguration of its 250th school in the fokontany of Ambahikily, in the heart of Morombe district. This new infrastructure, built through a successful partnership between public and private actors, will enable more than 1,150 students to study in modern and secure conditions. Far from being just a number, this 250th establishment represents fifteen years of sustained effort for Malagasy children. At the Ambahikily Public Primary School (EPP), where over 1,000 students study under 27 teachers, working conditions had become concerning, with a century-old building dating from 1925 threatening to collapse. With support from the Axian Foundation and United World School (UWS), the school has been completely transformed. The site now features three new primary classrooms, three preschool rooms, modern sanitation facilities, a hand-washing station, and play areas, along with the complete rehabilitation of three existing buildings. From this school year, nearly 1,150 children will be able to study in a decent and secure environment. "The number 250 is an important milestone, but it does not alone represent what we want to build. Behind each school are children, teachers, families, and an entire community. Our responsibility is to ensure these infrastructures truly support their journeys long-term. At Ambahikily, this also means investing in teachers, educational resources, and the connection between school and territory," said Mialisoa Andrianasolo, Executive Director of the Axian Foundation. The intervention extends beyond physical infrastructure. To ensure quality continuous teacher training, UWS has opened a professional development center equipped with computer equipment by Yas Madagascar. Meanwhile, the foundation stone for a multi-sport field was laid as part of the "M'HETSIKA MVola" program, emphasizing that school success also depends on sports and play. Launched in 2015, the initiative through the Sekoly Yas program has reached an impressive milestone with 250 schools built or renovated, benefiting over 61,000 students across Madagascar. These interventions occur in regions where the convergence of private commitment and public will makes action possible, and where the Axian group's territorial presence through its network of local entities creates strong social impact capacity. "Today, Ambahikily doesn't just have a beautiful school with walls and equipment. It's the students who walk through the door and the teachers who welcome them who will bring education to life. I truly call on all families in this region to send their children to school, because education is a right, and this right belongs to every child, especially our girls," said Major General Miandrisoa Olivier, Regional Chief of Atsimo-Andrefana.
Source: Midi Madagasikara