In Ankasina, a disadvantaged area of Antananarivo, education offers hope. Since 2014, Ankasina Adventist Private School (EPA Ankasina) has worked to give children real learning opportunities despite environmental challenges.
Over the years, student enrollment steadily increased — a positive sign of trust from the community, but also a growing challenge for the school. Classrooms became overcrowded, and several grade levels had to share the same room. Learning conditions were difficult: limited space, basic furniture, inadequate sanitation facilities, and frequent flooding during the rainy season that disrupted school activities and put children’s safety at risk.
Faced with this reality, ADRA Madagascar, with the support of ADRA Netherlands, launched a project to construct a new school building. This initiative was made possible thanks to the generous contributions of Adventgemeente Leeuwarden, as well as Feije, Rinske, Renate van der Meulen (Leeuwarden), and Albert Booij. Their support reflects a strong commitment to improving access to quality education for vulnerable children in Madagascar.
Built on a new site, the modern school infrastructure includes 10 classrooms spread across two floors, a kitchen area, and improved sanitation facilities with modern latrines. Each classroom is equipped with modern school furniture. The new building is designed to provide a durable and inspiring space that nurtures students’ growth, dignity, and potential.
Construction has now been completed, and the school has officially opened its doors. The inauguration ceremony took place on January 21 in the presence of various authorities, partners, and community members, marking a significant milestone for education in Ankasina. The event celebrated not only a new building, but also a renewed commitment to giving children the safe and supportive learning environment they deserve.
“This is a dream fulfilled for me. I sincerely thank ADRA Netherlands, through whom God made this place a reality. I also want to thank the donors who made this possible — may God bless their sacrifice of love and reward them abundantly.
On behalf of the leadership of ADRA Madagascar, I also express my gratitude to the church, especially FMC, for the strong collaboration that made this school possible. I pay tribute to my colleagues who spearheaded this initiative, and I thank the contractor who accepted this challenging project. The situation of this site was serious and discouraged many contractors.
To everyone who contributed in any way to making this a reality, we are deeply grateful. May God bless you all and reward you abundantly.”
— Dr. Chidi Nweneka, Acting Country Director, ADRA Madagascar