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Morocco's University Enrollment Soars to 1.3 Million as Medical Education Debate Intensifies
Morocco's higher education sector is experiencing significant growth, with university enrollment reaching 1.3 million students for the 2024-2025 academic year, a 5.9% increase from the previous year. Higher Education Minister Abdellatif Miraoui revealed these figures during a recent Chamber of Representatives session, highlighting both achievements and challenges in the nation's educational landscape.
The expansion is marked by 344,679 new enrollments, with public universities accounting for 91% of the student population. The ministry has significantly broadened its educational offerings, accrediting over 4,000 programs across public and private institutions, 3,000 in public and 1,000 in private sectors.
Limited-access programs have seen particularly robust growth, with a 21% increase in enrollment. Centers of excellence have more than doubled their capacity, now accommodating over 15,000 students compared to 6,500 in the previous year.
However, this period of growth coincides with significant upheaval in medical education. Since December 2023, medical students have been boycotting classes, training, and examinations in response to controversial reforms, particularly the reduction of medical training duration from seven to six years.
Minister Miraoui addressed the ongoing protests with a measured yet firm stance: "The door for dialogue remains open for those who are reluctant to engage, but it will not remain open indefinitely." He noted that 60% of medical students have completed their exams, while 40% continue their boycott.
Defending the curriculum changes, Miraoui explained that students can choose between six- and seven-year programs, questioning the continued resistance to the reform. He dismissed concerns about educational quality deterioration under the six-year structure, characterizing such fears as "greatly exaggerated."
This academic year marks the second phase of comprehensive educational reforms, which the ministry claims are beginning to show positive outcomes. The initiatives aim to align educational programs with economic sector demands while maintaining academic standards.
The developments reflect Morocco's broader efforts to modernize its higher education system, balancing increased accessibility with maintaining educational quality. The ongoing dialogue between administration and medical students highlights the challenges of implementing significant reforms in specialized fields while preserving educational standards.