Sekoly Kintana Montessori

July 2025

Sekoly Kintana Montessori is transforming education in Taolagnaro, Madagascar—one child, one teacher, and one classroom at a time. Founded in 2024, the school was born from a powerful vision: to create a learning environment that affirms Malagasy identity while preparing children to thrive in a globalized world. In a region where rote memorization, under-resourced classrooms, and the erasure of local language remain the norm, Sekoly Kintana offers something profoundly different.

This trilingual Montessori program centers Malagasy language and culture, creating space for children to learn in the language of their hearts while gaining fluency in French and English. In classrooms carefully prepared with Montessori materials, students explore literacy, numeracy, emotional intelligence, and practical life skills with joy and purpose. The school’s emphasis on curiosity, resilience, and community-minded leadership is helping children grow not only in knowledge—but in confidence and identity.

What began with just seven children has grown to serve over two dozen, with a waitlist of families eager to join. As the school expands, the next critical step is building lasting professional capacity among its local educators. With grant funds from MGGF Sekoly Kintana plans to launch a transformative initiative: a 10-month in-person residency with a seasoned Montessori Guide, paired with accredited AMI training in French for two Malagasy staff members.

This investment will elevate classroom quality, empower teachers with hands-on mentorship, and embed expert practice within the team—laying the foundation for sustainable, locally led growth. Donor support will help ensure that this early-stage school moves from promise to excellence, equipping children with the tools to learn independently, think critically, and lead with heart.

Sekoly Kintana is more than a school. It is a powerful model of post-colonial education—where language is reclaimed, culture is honored, and opportunity is redefined. With MGGF’s help this project will uplift a new generation of Malagasy educators and prove that Madagascar’s children can reach their fullest potential without having to leave home to do so.

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