Morocco Witnesses a 6% Surge in University Students, Prompting Expansion Efforts
Morocco’s Minister of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Innovation, Abdellatif Miraoui, recently announced a significant increase in the number of university students in the country. During the current academic year, the student population has grown by 6%, bringing the total to 1.3 million students. Notably, 94% of these students are enrolled in public universities.
In response to this surge in demand, Moroccan authorities have devised plans to expand the capacity of higher education institutions. According to reports from Morocco World News, they aim to create 18,600 additional places for students.
A critical factor contributing to the rise in university students is the implementation of renovation, expansion, modernization, and growth initiatives by several universities across the country. Prominent institutions such as Ibn Zohr University, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, and Ibn Tofail University have all designed projects to accommodate more students. These initiatives will collectively provide 11,850 additional places.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Innovation itself will open three new faculties of medicine and pharmacy in Errachidia, Beni Mellal, and Guelmim, thereby increasing university capacity.
Looking ahead, Minister Miraoui presented plans for new university campuses and expansions. By the 2023-2024 academic year, campuses will be opened in Taza, Kenitra, and Agadir, while existing ones in Rabat and Nador will be expanded. The new campuses will create a capacity of 1,300 places in Taza, 1,800 in Kenitra, and 1,600 in Agadir. Additionally, Nador and Rabat will be expanded by 820 and 1,200 places, respectively.
In collaboration with the private sector, a student residence accommodating 574 students will be established in Agadir. With the Ministry of Education’s active involvement through the National Office of University Social and Cultural Works, ongoing projects will be accelerated. These projects include the development of campuses in Fez, Mohammedia, and Al Hoceima. Fez will provide spaces for 1,600 students, while Mohammedia and Al Hoceima will have capacities of 1,400 beds each. Furthermore, 11 student residence schemes in partnership with the private sector, accommodating around 6,523 students, will be completed.
Morocco’s efforts to meet the growing demand for higher education reflect the importance placed on equipping its young population with the necessary knowledge and skills. With an increasing number of students gaining access to educational opportunities, the country is making progressive strides in the field of higher education.
