Mme Ravalomanana: Let Us Give Our Children Back Their Future

As the search for a new election date continues, Presidential Candidate Lalao Ravalomanana has warned that it must not interrupt Malagasy school exams, highlighting the importance of education for our children and for Madagascar's future.

'Nothing is more important than the education of our children. I was deeply concerned to read of the suggestion that our Presidential elections may conflict with school exams. This must be avoided at all costs, if we are to ensure a free and fair election open to all.

'Under the current government half of our children have dropped out of school since 2009. This means that 500,000 more children are not receiving the education that it is our responsibility to provide.

'Our children are our future. Their education secures Madagascar's stability and a prosperous future for all their families. I know this because my education has been invaluable in my life. It has taught me to believe in myself, it showed me that I am capable and that I can achieve whatever I set my mind to. I want all Malagasy children to have this confidence in themselves because it will build our confidence as a nation.

'As a candidate for the Mouvance I pledge that a government headed by me will make education a key priority. We will encourage all children to attend school and to receive an education. We will instil in all young people the importance of learning, so that they grow up to become educated and confident adults, able to carry forward our present work into future generations.

'Our children's education will ensure that our culture is protected in years to come; it will create sustainable growth, improve living standards and build a strong and united Madagascar that will win international recognition.

'So, I urge you to let us assume responsibility for our children and ensure that education is a significant part of their lives. Let us give them back the kind of future that we envisaged for them four years ago.'

NEVY...

Madame Lalao Ravalomanana is the Presidential Candidate for the Mouvance Ravalomanana, a growing coalition of political parties dedicated to bringing a secure, peaceful and prosperous future to Madagascar. For high resolution images free to download, visit the Mouvance Ravalomanana Flickr page:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/96646855@N04/