On October 2, 2025, the Ministry of Digital Development, Posts and Telecommunications (MNDPT) officially launched the first cohort of the Skills4Job project in Toamasina, Madagascar. The initiative brings together 51 young participants from the region, marking a significant step toward realizing President Andry Rajoelina’s vision of transforming Madagascar into an innovative and competitive digital nation.
The Skills4Job program aims to bridge the gap between youth talent and the digital economy, offering training and mentorship opportunities that align with the country’s long-term digital transformation goals.
Empowering Malagasy Youth Through Digital Skills
In a national context characterized by economic and social challenges, the Skills4Job initiative stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity. It seeks to empower Malagasy youth, the driving force of the nation, by equipping them with practical digital skills to turn obstacles into opportunities.
According to MNDPT, the project is more than a training program; it is a strategic investment in the future, aimed at building a generation capable of leading Madagascar’s digital and economic transformation.
“Training and supporting young people is paramount if we want to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s digital world,” said Stéphanie Delmotte, Madagascar’s Minister of Digital Development, Posts and Telecommunications.
Toamasina: The Gateway to Madagascar’s Digital Economy
The coastal city of Toamasina, known as the economic lung of Madagascar, was chosen as the launch site for this flagship program. With over 80% of the country’s international trade passing through its port, Toamasina serves as both a symbolic and strategic hub for digital innovation.
Minister Delmotte highlighted the critical role of local partnerships, noting the collaboration among companies, trainers, and regional authorities working together to support young people in the digital sector.
“This initiative is a collective effort, a partnership between government, local businesses, and educational institutions to create sustainable opportunities for our youth,” the Minister added.
A Milestone for Digital Inclusion and Growth
The launch of the first Skills4Job cohort represents a major milestone for the MNDPT’s mission to build an inclusive digital ecosystem. By developing a skilled workforce, the ministry aims to accelerate economic growth, foster innovation, and ensure that young Malagasy talent becomes a central driver of national progress.
The project also aligns with Madagascar’s broader goal of promoting digital inclusion, job creation, and technological advancement, particularly in underserved regions.
Key Takeaway
Madagascar’s Skills4Job project signals a new era in the nation’s digital transformation journey. By investing in youth empowerment and skills development, the government is paving the way for a sustainable, innovation-driven economy that positions Madagascar as a rising player in Africa’s digital landscape.
