SpringerBriefs Books Donation 2024: University of Toliara​

The research group led by Prof. Jean Hugues at the University of Toliara (Madagascar) has been nominated and selected for the 2024 edition of the SpringerBriefs Books Donation project, a collaborative project between EPNOE and Springer Nature. As part of this initiative, the research group will receive 20 books on bio-economy, sustainability, and gender equality.

Established in 1971, the University of Toliara is the oldest decentralised higher education center in Madagascar, achieving university status in 1988.

Prof. Jean Hugues and his team are dedicated to the valorisation and conservation of medicinal plants found in southern Madagascar, aiming to develop improved traditional medicines.

A recent survey conducted by the team in southern Madagascar identified several plants traditionally used to treat diabetes and cancer. Their current research focuses on isolating antidiabetic and anticancer molecules. Prof. Jean Hugues is particularly involved in this field, collaborating with the Transformation & Agro-Resources Unit at the University of Artois, directed by Prof. Patrick Martin.

Looking ahead, their vision includes securing a large-scale project to acquire modern equipment such as UHPLC and GC/MS, which are crucial for advancing their research.

As a public institution, the University of Toliara adheres to the “Malagasy State Gender Policy”, promoting gender equality and combating discrimination. The university has achieved significant progress in this area, with women comprising the majority of the administrative and technical staff. Among the permanent professors, there are currently 176 men and 89 women, and the university aims to further improve gender balance through ongoing efforts.