The Moroccan government is making strides to address one of the primary demands from the body representing academic researchers. Recent indicators suggest a preliminary acceptance from the budgetary sector, overseen by Fouzi Lekjaa, regarding the proposal to universally apply the accounting of nine years of service for this group. This significant development arose during a new round of sectoral dialogue between the Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research, and Innovation and the National Syndicate of Higher Education. The discussions encompassed various issues, with the extension of this benefit being at the forefront, as it was previously limited to specific categories of professors, particularly those in medical and pharmacy faculties.
According to consistent reports, the discussions did not merely focus on the principle of universality but also delved into the technical aspects related to its implementation. An initial draft regulatory text was presented, and there is an agreement to continue consultations to refine it, addressing both legal phrasing and the determination of its application method—whether immediate or gradual. However, this initiative is not without complications, as union sources indicate that the currently proposed framework may perpetuate previous limitations by restricting benefits to certain categories while excluding others. This has prompted representatives of the professors to call for a reassessment of the project to ensure inclusivity and prevent any group from being marginalized.
In a related context, the issue of general seniority within the public service was raised, where the ministry presented an initial vision aligned with union proposals. However, it requested additional alternatives in anticipation of any potential objections from other relevant government sectors, particularly those related to finance and public administration. On the front of professional promotions, significant progress has been observed, with the majority of pending cases for the year 2023 being addressed, leaving only a limited number of cases still under review and resolution.
Moreover, the matter of equating certain foreign qualifications, particularly the French doctorate, has seen a notable breakthrough, following a final agreement on the issue. This move is expected to enhance the principle of equal opportunities within the university system. Regarding the tax exemption associated with research compensation, this option appears to be facing challenges in achieving governmental consensus, leading to a shift towards alternative solutions. These include revising the value of these compensations to offset tax effects, a proposal anticipated to be discussed more extensively in upcoming meetings.
While these developments reflect a relative advancement in certain matters, union sources assert that the path remains lengthy for resolving all outstanding points, given the persistent reservations within decision-making frameworks. This situation indicates that dialogue remains open for further discussions and negotiations in the forthcoming phase.
As reported by klamkom.com.
