Malagasy students return home after 4 years of education; ACU administrators hold graduation ceremony in Madagascar for family, friends and country

Posted July 07, 2008 Malagasy gradsMost college students only walk the stage once to receive their diplomas, but 24 recent Abilene Christian University graduates will walk the stage once again, but this time in front of their family, friends and homeland.

On Saturday, July 19, the Malagasy government, in partnership with ACU, will celebrate this occasion with a graduation ceremony at the Carlton Hotel in Antananarivo, Madagascar.

In 2004, President Marc Ravalamonana hand-picked some of the brightest young people in the country to study at Abilene Christian University, a private Christian university located in Abilene, Texas, USA. These 12 men and 12 women were selected from more than 1,000 students who applied for the prestigious scholarship, which paid four years of tuition at ACU.

"We have been honored to be partners with Madagascar as the government takes this bold step to educate future leaders," said ACU's Dr. John Tyson, vice president for development. "Our mission is to educate students for Christian service and leadership throughout the world, so we were excited to help prepare young leaders of Madagascar to return home and strengthen their nation."

In May, all 24 students completed the Madagascar Presidential Scholars Program and received their diplomas. During the ceremony, Ravalomanana addressed the Malagasy students.

"I am proud of you," he said. "Your country, your families and your professors are proud of you…. I hope you understand what a treasure you will have when you receive your diploma from ACU. Having a degree from an American university is highly valued around the world, but to graduate from an excellent university where God is honored is priceless."

While at ACU, the students studied various majors, experienced American culture, worked at part-time jobs on campus and participated in service work and internships.

"To the faculty and staff of ACU, please accept my deepest gratitude for your dedication to academic excellence and your commitment to the values of Jesus Christ," Ravalomanana said. "In fact, you have exceeded my expectations. You have helped develop the minds of your students, and you have helped to shape their faith and lives, as well."

Coming full-circle from their departure for Abilene four years ago, the students have returned home to recreate the graduation ceremony for their friends and family.

"Words can't say how happy our families are," said environmental science graduate Hasina Randrianjafy. "They have been waiting for this moment forever."

To find out the latest happenings during the ACU visit to Madagascar, visit the .
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