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Outrage Erupts as Marrakech CPGE Dormitory Becomes Site of Sexual Assault Against Female Student

Outrage Erupts as Marrakech CPGE Dormitory Becomes Site of Sexual Assault Against Female Student
Thursday 11 January 2024 - 08:45
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In a shocking incident that has sent shockwaves through the student community, the School of Preparatory Classes (CPGE) Ibn Timiya in Marrakech was rocked last Sunday morning when an unidentified assailant boldly entered the girls' dormitory, attempting to sexually assault a female student. The incident has sparked outrage among students, who are not only appalled by the attack itself but also deeply concerned about the apparent security lapse that allowed the perpetrator to go unnoticed.

According to a student, who wished to remain anonymous, the intruder gained access to the dormitory's facilities and cornered a female student in the restroom on the third floor. Locking the door, he subjected her to sexual harassment and made an attempt to rape her. The victim, displaying immense courage, managed to escape and sought refuge in the room of neighboring girls. Their collective screams for help prompted the assailant to flee the scene.

The quick response of a fellow student and residential staff led to the apprehension of the perpetrator, who was subsequently handed over to the police. However, rather than finding solace and support from the school administration, students have been met with what they perceive as a dismissive attitude. They accuse the administration of trivializing the gravity of the situation and failing to prioritize their safety.

"The administration downplayed the incident, as if our security doesn't matter. They brushed it off as something normal and urged us not to exaggerate," lamented the anonymous student. To compound matters, the general supervisor of the dormitory allegedly went so far as to suggest that the victim had fabricated the entire ordeal.

These developments have triggered a protest strike outside the administrative offices, where students are demanding improved security measures. The victim's parents have also joined the protest, underscoring the severity of the situation. However, instead of addressing the concerns raised, the school has reportedly resorted to threats, vowing severe consequences for the protesting students.

"They are attempting to silence us and have even threatened to ban us from the dormitory and suspend us from school," revealed one student.

Meanwhile, the National Union of Representatives for Students in Preparatory Classes in Morocco issued an official statement on January 8, expressing solidarity with the victim and her family and condemning the heinous act.

"The attempted assault on a student within the residential building is a horrifying violation of human dignity and individual safety," the statement read. The union called for swift and stringent legal action against the perpetrator, while also stressing the urgent need to enhance security measures within CPGE educational institutions to ensure the safety and well-being of both male and female students.

As the investigation into this distressing incident unfolds, it serves as a somber reminder of the imperative to foster a secure environment within educational institutions, where students can pursue their studies without fear of harm or violation.


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