Moroccan king announces plan to promote social, economic equality
As Morocco's king marks 20 years on the throne, he's preparing a plan designed to aid the poor, largely through education.
CASABLANCA — Morocco is taking action on unemployment, King Mohammed VI said recently, stressing the need to develop a social protection program and enhance education, especially vocational training.
Speaking Aug. 20 on the 66th anniversary of the Moroccan revolution, the monarch said the government is ready to select a commission to reduce social and economic disparities. One way to do this, he believes, is by emphasizing education. He wants priority placed on vocational education over academic and university programs.
He said, “Passing the baccalaureate exam and going to university is not a privilege but a phase in the education process. It is even more important to receive training that opens up prospects for professional integration and social stability,” Morocco World News reported Aug. 20.
However, such job prospects look dim. Higher Planning Commission figures from May 2018 showed unemployment among vocational school graduates reached 26% in 2017.
