Madagascar President Bans Ministers’ Children From Studying Abroad in an Unprecedented Reform

Pan-African spirited Madagascar's transitional leader, Colonel Michaël Randrianirina has banned all ministers and government officials from sending their children overseas to study. All public servants funded by taxpayers' money will now only be able to send their children to schools within the country. The new policy, issued from the presidential palace, is one of the most drastic changes to be seen in Africa as it looks to close down the loophole many politicians have used to send their children away to study.

The policy comes as President Randrianirina seeks to improve trust in government run institutions. Many have said that if those in charge of running the country's schools aren't using them, there is no way people will trust them. By ensuring children of high ranking ministers are attending the same schools as children of farmers and workers, the government hopes to ensure those in power have a personal stake in the success of these schools.

Colonel Randrianirina came to power on the 17th of October 2025, after weeks of strong protests from Gen Z youths due to a lack of utilities and high inflation. He immediately suspended several institutions and promised to enact a stringent 18-24 month transitional period focussing on justice and restoring trust in the country before holding free elections.

This new policy follows a series of anti-corruption policies implemented over the past year. The president has already banned all ministers from holding dual nationalities or passports. By closing off these loopholes the interim government are ensuring the wealth of the elite can no longer be sent to Europe.

The recent changes come after former President Andry Rajoelina faced backlash from the nation after it was discovered he had obtained French citizenship. This secret dual nationality was seen as a sign by the protesting youths and new government that the ruling class were living in the country but had an easy way out if things got too tough. Randrianirina's policies are an attempt to correct this.

With one of the poorest countries in the world, Madagascar has many issues with its infrastructure. The public universities are not well funded, primary schools are overcrowded and resources are scarce. With this new decree the president is making it clear that the country needs to improve its education system from within. Public figures will need to find ways to improve the situation in Antananarivo.

Whilst some may question how effective this policy will be, it has received lots of praise from civil society groups and Pan African groups in the region. Now it is time to see if it can be implemented. The new Prime Minister Ruphin Zafisambo Herintsalama Rajaonarivelo will begin enforcing the policy across all government ministries. With an excited nation watching, this will be the ultimate test to see if the new policy will deliver complete equality and self reliance for the country.