Placing competence at the heart of institutional reform

Monday 07 July 2025 - 08:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Placing competence at the heart of institutional reform

Rooted in the cultural values of Morocco and shaped by professional experiences abroad, a call for institutional reform and the prioritization of human dignity has emerged as the cornerstone of sustainable development. The philosophy of “the right person in the right place” is often heralded as a guiding principle in business and governance, yet the reality within organizations frequently falls short of this ideal.

Effectively reforming institutions requires more than slogans; it demands a paradigm shift in how human resources are perceived and valued. Employees at all levels—whether receptionists, cleaners, or security guards—are essential contributors to an organization’s success. These roles, too often dismissed as secondary, are linchpins of efficiency, morale, and institutional image. True reform involves discarding the outdated dichotomy of “productive” versus “non-productive” roles, embracing a holistic view of value that honors every individual’s contribution.

This inclusive approach resonates with the ethical principles of Islamic thought, which emphasize the inherent dignity of human beings. It also aligns with the directives of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, who, in his 2018 address to the National Forum on Public Service, stressed the importance of valuing human capital and reforming public administration to achieve Morocco’s developmental goals.

Beyond paychecks: creating a culture of respect

Recognition goes beyond monetary compensation. Simple gestures like a warm greeting, genuine concern for employee well-being, and acknowledgment of contributions can build loyalty and enhance productivity. High turnover rates in many organizations signal a deeper issue: workers often leave not because of inadequate pay, but because of poor treatment and a lack of appreciation.

Leaders who prioritize professional development, create clear career pathways, and respect employees as individuals foster healthier, more dynamic workplaces. Loyalty, after all, must be earned through respect and support, not demanded.

To truly value talent, organizations must also address broader issues such as economic inequality, cultural identity, and the role of language as a vessel of creativity and knowledge. Governance models that emphasize listening and transparency, as advocated by the World Economic Forum, can help organizations uncover and nurture hidden potential within their teams.

Human capital as a pillar of development

Shifting from viewing employees as costs to seeing them as investments requires a transformation in organizational and societal thinking. Morocco’s new development model depends on several key factors: strong political will, comprehensive administrative reforms, educational systems aligned with labor market needs, and a cultural shift that values creativity, knowledge, and work.

This vision also demands a strategic alliance between the state, private sector, and civil society. Together, these actors can create policies and practices that elevate competence to its rightful place, promote meritocracy, and align institutional goals with human dignity.

In his 2023 Throne Day speech, His Majesty King Mohammed VI highlighted the role of education and training in empowering youth and preparing them for modern challenges. He emphasized that sustainable development depends on advancing the human element, unleashing creativity, and fostering innovation.

Ultimately, achieving these goals requires moving beyond diagnosis to action. Bridging the gap between vision and implementation calls for reshaping mental, cultural, and organizational structures to put people at the center of the development process. Competence in its rightful place is not just an administrative slogan but a transformative philosophy—one that restores human dignity and strengthens the foundation of institutional and national success.