Morocco's Educational Landscape: Addressing Challenges, Seeking Transformation

Saturday 18 May 2024 - 10:30

In the recently published Insider Monkey Global Education Index for 2024, Morocco is ranked 154th out of 218 countries and territories, with an index score of 0.000002309. This low ranking highlights the nation's absence of top-ranked universities and relatively low per capita education spending.

The Insider Monkey Global Education Index is a comprehensive assessment of the quality and accessibility of education worldwide. Developed by financial economist Inan Dogan, the index employs three key indicators: the number of universities ranked within the top 1,000 by QS World University Rankings, the average rank of these institutions, and the per capita government expenditure on education.

While the United States secures the top spot with an impressive score of 0.999792487, boasting 142 top-ranked universities and substantial per capita spending of $4,371 on education, Morocco's ranking reflects its lack of universities among the top 1,000 and a relatively modest per capita education expenditure of $230.

Morocco's higher education sector, particularly in the medical field, has faced significant challenges, exemplified by the recent nationwide boycott by medical and pharmacy students. The students have expressed frustration over the government's decision to reduce their medical education from seven to six years without clear accompanying measures or addressing concerns about the potential impact on the quality of their training. Overcrowding in classrooms and hospitals, delayed infrastructure projects, and inadequate student support have further exacerbated the situation.

Recognizing the need for transformation, the Moroccan Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation has introduced a national plan, "PACTE ESRI 2030," aimed at accelerating the evolution of the higher education system. Minister Abdellatif Miraoui has emphasized that the success of this plan relies on the collective mobilization and concerted efforts of all stakeholders involved.

The plan seeks to strengthen language skills, develop self-skills, and reinforce centers of excellence to address significant challenges related to artificial intelligence and create human capital capable of overcoming constraints and meeting challenges. As Morocco navigates this transformative journey, the country's educational landscape is poised to undergo significant changes, addressing the current challenges and paving the way for a brighter future.