Significant Increase in Morocco's Education Investment
Rabat – In a proactive move to enhance the educational landscape, Morocco is set to raise its budget for education, vocational training, and higher education to MAD 121.3 billion by the year 2027. This increase represents an additional MAD 5.3 billion compared to the previous year, reflecting the government's commitment to addressing the pressing challenges within the education sector.
During a session focused on the 2027 Finance Bill, Minister of Economy and Finance, Fouzi Lekjaa, emphasized that the augmented budget aims to combat high school dropout rates while simultaneously expanding vocational training opportunities. This strategic decision is part of a larger initiative to tackle the long-standing issues plaguing Morocco's education system.
Earlier this month, His Majesty King Mohammed VI chaired a ministerial council that was pivotal in reviewing and approving the overarching guidelines related to the forthcoming Finance Bill. In his presentation to the monarch, Lekjaa outlined the government's intention to prioritize the integration of youth into educational tracks, vocational training programs, and ultimately, gainful employment.
The proposed national program covering the period from 2027 to 2031 is designed to provide essential professional guidance, comprehensive training, business support, and improved access to financing and markets. The government is also looking to shift from fragmented sectoral initiatives towards a more cohesive approach that accompanies young individuals from their educational and training experiences right through to employment and housing solutions.
Addressing Challenges in Education and Youth Employment
Reports and evaluations have consistently highlighted significant structural challenges within Morocco's education system, and the government is keenly aware of these hurdles. Recently, hundreds of preschool teachers gathered outside Morocco’s parliament to advocate for their integration into public service, demand higher salaries, and seek improved working conditions. This protest underscores the urgent need for reform within the educational framework.
Moreover, the alarming statistics regarding student dropout rates cannot be overlooked. Estimates indicate that approximately 280,000 students leave school each year, with a staggering 160,000 of them withdrawing at the middle school level. In its strategic program for 2026-2031, the new government led by Head of Government Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri has recognized these challenges as critical issues that need addressing.
El Mansouri highlighted that around 2.9 million young individuals aged 15 to 29 are currently not engaged in education, employment, or training. The unemployment rate among those aged 15 to 24 is particularly concerning, standing at 29.2%. Furthermore, approximately 300,000 students exit the educational system annually without attaining any qualifications, a situation that necessitates immediate and effective policy interventions.
In her address, El Mansouri advocated for an integrated policy framework aimed at supporting youth in their pursuit of economic and social stability. She emphasized that the cabinet's initiative places special focus on youth issues, particularly in efforts to attract skilled professionals back to Morocco and mitigate the emigration of highly educated graduates. Additionally, her government is committed to involving young people in contracts for major projects and preparations for the upcoming 2030 World Cup.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
