The Moroccan government is taking steps to address one of the primary demands of the university professors' association, as initial indications from the budgeting sector, overseen by Fouzi Lekjaa, suggest a willingness to implement the calculation of nine years of service for this group. This development emerged during a recent round of sectoral dialogue between the Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research, and Innovation, and the National Union of Higher Education.
Discussions focused on several key issues, particularly the expansion of benefits from this initiative, which had previously been restricted to specific groups of professors, especially those in medical and pharmaceutical faculties. According to consistent reports, the dialogue did not merely remain at the principle of extension; it also delved into the technical aspects regarding the implementation. A draft regulatory text was presented, and there was an agreement to continue consultations to refine it, both in legal formulation and in determining the method of its application, whether immediate or gradual.
However, this direction is not without its complications. Union sources indicate that the currently proposed format may perpetuate the previous rationale by limiting benefits to certain categories, prompting faculty representatives to demand a re-evaluation of the project to ensure inclusiveness, preventing the exclusion of any group. In a related context, the issue of overall seniority within the public service was raised, with the ministry presenting an initial vision aligned with union proposals, but it requested additional alternatives to preempt any potential objections from other concerned government sectors, particularly those related to finance and public administration.
On the professional promotions front, notable progress has been recorded after resolving the majority of outstanding cases for the year 2023, leaving only a limited number of cases still under review and resolution. Additionally, the issue of equivalency for certain foreign degrees, notably the French doctorate, has seen significant improvements, culminating in a final agreement expected to bolster the principle of equal opportunity within the university system.
Regarding the tax exemption related to research compensation, it appears that this option faces challenges in achieving governmental consensus. In contrast, there is a shift towards alternative solutions, including the review of the value of these compensations to offset the fiscal impact, a proposal anticipated to be more broadly discussed in upcoming meetings. While these developments reflect relative progress in some areas, union sources assert that there remains a long road ahead to resolve all outstanding issues, with ongoing reservations within decision-making circles suggesting that dialogue will continue to evolve in the coming stages.
As reported by klamkom.com.
