Rabesa Zafera Antoine
Rabesa Zafera Antoine (born in Antsohihy, French Madagascar) is a Malagasy. He was President of the University of Mahajanga from 23 April 2010 until 10 October 2014. Academic career. Studies. After his graduation, Antoine obtained four postgraduate qualifications, which enabled his progression among the élite of Madagascar and even French itself: Career. His professional career is based in the world of higher education, being a professor of the University of Mahajanga teaching general studies, ecology, and general research and development in plant biology in the Faculty of Sciences: He is also an advisor to the University's  Rector. He is known in French academic circles, and in 1990 was given the honorary title of the Grand officier of the Ordre national du mérite of France for his work there and for his contribution to Franco-Malagacian relations. He has made a name for himself in the scientific world by publishing over 34 scientific papers, and has two patents, one for a plant-based anti-asthmatic drug and one for a traditional plant-based Madagascar cosmetic. Political career. Minister. From 1983 to 1991, Antoine was Minister of Research and Technology Development under Admiral Didier Ratsiraka. On 26 May  2011, he was appointed Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research by the Interim President Andry Rajoelina under the head of government, Albert Camille Vital. Ambassador. After a break of a few years he was asked by Admiral Didier Ratsiraka to represent the Malagasy diplomatic mission to West Germany as Ambassador of Madagascar. Until 2009, he combined this with his professorial role at the University of Mahajanga. University President. On 23 April 2010, Antoine officially took his position as President of the University of Mahajanga. He wrote a paper detailing ten projects for the development of the university: Rabesa Zafera