“Children are the future of the nation. We view them as ambassadors of our values in their communities.”
Andoniaina Rasamoelina, staff member of the Environmental Education Program

In an increasingly digital world, environmental problems are often addressed primarily through technological innovations. From renewable energy and digital monitoring systems to artificial intelligence—all are seen as tools for a sustainable future. But sustainable change doesn’t come about through technology alone. It starts where people learn, exchange ideas, and take responsibility together. That’s exactly what we experience every day in Madagascar’s fokontany.

CLAC-Centers: More Than Just Libraries

CLACs (Centers for Reading Promotion and Cultural Activities) offer children and young people vibrant gathering places where curiosity is sparked, knowledge is shared, and community is strengthened.

This is especially essential in Madagascar’s rural regions, where access to educational and cultural opportunities is limited. The CLACs help reduce this inequality by providing young people with a space to learn, discover, and exchange ideas. As an extension of the National Library, they provide access to resources that would otherwise be out of reach.

To further improve this access, we have provided tablets at the CLAC centers. This initiative is being implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Communication and Culture (MCC) and the National Library of Madagascar (BNM).

Knowledge Opens New Paths

The goal is to inspire children and young people who visit the libraries after school with innovative educational content and to open new learning opportunities for them.

“The devices will provide new impetus not only to the students but also to their communities.” 

Alexandre Rajaonarivony, Chair of the Special Delegation (PDS) of Manjakandriana

Technology is not the main focus here.

What matters most are the opportunities it creates and the fact that it is tailored to the children’s needs: it makes learning more engaging and interactive. It opens up new ways to discover the world and expand one’s knowledge.

“I love the tablets because I can discover so many new things with them. This donation motivates me to learn more and do well in school.”

Koloina, student

Feedback like this shows how important access to educational resources is for young people’s academic and personal development.

At the same time, it supports our work to raise awareness among young people about environmental and sustainability issues and to inspire them to treat their environment responsibly.

A special moment in Manjakandriana

As part of the CLAC initiative, our employees in Manjakandriana were able to hand out tablets to students. The handoff was a moving moment: their eyes sparkled, and their enthusiasm was palpable.

Furthermore, the event symbolized the shared commitment of all involved to strengthen education right there on the ground and open up better future prospects for young people.

Investing in the Future

Our Conclusion: The strength of this initiative lies not only in the technology itself, but in how people adapt and utilize innovations within their own context. After all, innovation doesn’t always mean high-tech. Often, it is simple, local solutions that make the biggest difference.

At the same time, technology—even in remote regions—can provide new impetus and inspire young people to engage with important issues. Education, exchange, and collaboration lay the foundation for sustainable change. When children can learn, grow, and take responsibility, entire communities benefit.