Increasing Interest Among Mauritanian Students in Moroccan Universities
As the new academic year approaches, there is a noticeable surge of activity among Mauritanian students who are keen to identify the most suitable academic destinations for their studies, whether pursuing a Bachelor's degree, Master's, or Doctorate. In response to this growing interest, the National Union of Mauritanian Students and Trainees in Morocco has been actively organizing guidance activities aimed at high school graduates (Baccalaureate holders) to inform them about the various university courses and specializations available in Morocco. One of the latest initiatives was the hosting of the "Annual Guidance Salon," which serves as a platform for prospective students to explore their options.
Hamid Abdul Aziz, the newly appointed Secretary-General of the Union, emphasized that the purpose of the Annual Guidance Salon, held recently, is to familiarize new Mauritanian students with the Moroccan educational landscape. He stated that this event is part of the Union's ongoing efforts to support students by providing them with essential information required for their academic journey in Morocco, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding their academic paths.
Challenges Faced by New Students
Abdul Aziz highlighted the importance of pre-emptive support for new students, who often require assistance with various aspects related to university life, including accommodation and navigating transportation between cities in Morocco, as well as overcoming initial challenges, particularly concerning the nature of available scientific specializations at different universities. He noted that such arrangements typically necessitate coordination between the Union and both Moroccan and Mauritanian partners.
Furthermore, Abdul Aziz underscored the need to maintain a fair and transparent distribution of study slots abroad to ensure equal opportunities for all students and to enhance trust in the standards of merit and competence. As for the upcoming academic year's challenges, he pointed out that housing remains a primary concern for students at the beginning of the academic year, until they can secure accommodation in the International Residence in Rabat or in university dormitories across various Moroccan cities.
The civil society actor acknowledged that some challenges in this regard stem from the large number of Mauritanian and foreign students studying in Morocco, while also recognizing the measures being taken by both Moroccan and Mauritanian authorities regarding university scholarships. Following the formation of its new office, the Union met in July with Mohamed Methqal, the Ambassador and Director General of the Moroccan Agency for International Cooperation, and Mahjoub Maftouh, the Head of Academic Cooperation at the same agency, to discuss key issues, including the topic of university housing.
As reported by hespress.com.
