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Mohammed VI Foundation Launches Educational Support for Children of Incarcerated Parents in Morocco

Mohammed VI Foundation Launches Educational Support for Children of Incarcerated Parents in Morocco
Friday 27 September 2024 - 17:00 Journalists: Dakir Madiha
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The Mohammed VI Foundation for the Reintegration of Detainees has unveiled a groundbreaking initiative aimed at supporting the children of incarcerated parents as they prepare for the upcoming 2024-2025 academic year. Dubbed the "Facilitation of Access to School Enrollment" program, this effort seeks to improve the integration of children whose parents are currently or were recently incarcerated.

At its core, the program aims to promote children's rights as integral and indivisible, recognizing the unique challenges faced by these young individuals. The initiative has already made significant strides, providing support to 369 students across Morocco. Of these, 229 are in primary school, 93 in middle school, and 47 in high school, all under the watchful eye of the Foundation's regional support and reintegration centers.

This ambitious project is not operating in isolation. The Foundation has partnered with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Morocco and secured backing from the American Fund. This collaborative approach brings together various stakeholders to foster knowledge, instill values of quality education, and promote respect while rejecting hate among the children served by the Foundation.

The program's launch was marked by a ceremony attended by key figures, including the General Coordinator of the Mohammed VI Foundation, the interim UNDP Resident Representative in Morocco, and representatives from the US and Netherlands embassies. The event featured a range of educational and recreational activities for the children, highlighting the program's commitment to holistic development.

In a practical demonstration of support, the Foundation distributed tablets loaded with educational resources, along with clothing and school supplies. This gesture allows the beneficiaries to experience the excitement of returning to school on par with their peers, despite their challenging circumstances.

The timing of this initiative is particularly crucial, as Morocco faces a challenging back-to-school season marked by a significant increase in the cost of school supplies. This price hike, primarily attributed to rising paper and transportation costs, has impacted the entire supply chain, making the Foundation's support even more vital for these vulnerable families.

As part of a broader set of social initiatives, the "Facilitation of Access to School Enrollment" program exemplifies the Mohammed VI Foundation's commitment to addressing the multifaceted needs of incarcerated individuals and their families. By focusing on education and integration, the Foundation is taking a proactive approach to breaking cycles of disadvantage and providing these children with opportunities for a brighter future.

This innovative program not only addresses immediate educational needs but also lays the groundwork for long-term social integration and personal development. As Morocco continues to grapple with the complexities of social justice and education, initiatives like this shine a beacon of hope for some of society's most vulnerable members.


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