By Jamal Saidi
By Jamal Saidi
Morocco World News
Casablanca, August 9, 2012
In Rabat, a number of young Moroccans demonstrate on daily basis, demanding what they call “Attawdif almobachir” or direct employment in the public sector. They hold academic degrees, ranging from BA to MA to Phd. I visited the capital several times, just to find same scenes of rage against the government. I used to sympathize with the group, but I ultimately realize that they are totally wrong, in the full meaning of the word.
The public sector cannot absorb unemployment among Moroccans. The number of the available jobs is undoubtedly limited. It is, therefore, very legitimate to rely on competition as the only criteria. Otherwise, equal opportunity among citizens, as stated in the country’s constitution, is at stake. I think that the previous government made a fatal mistake of employing a group of degree holders only because they demonstrate in front of the parliament.
This decision sent, unfortunately, an encrypted message which says that “if you want a job, join demonstrators in Rabat.” The current president of the government has made various decisions that I personally don’t agree with. But regarding the “direct employment”, he certainly made the right one.
Education in Morocco is free. Thousands of Moroccans studied until they obtained their higher academic degrees, without having to pay. This is a bliss that is worth mentioning. Those who accomplished their studies in the Moroccan public educational institutions are probably in need to take a moment of reflection. They need to realize that the role of the state is, to some extent, successfully accomplished through offering free-tuition education. I suggest they should change their perspective in relation to life.
It is a matter of self-reliance, my dear friends. As I have previously stated, our country is not in a position to offer public jobs to every single graduated person. It is, therefore, necessary for the graduated to think outside of the box. It is high time they rely on themselves. The public sector is not the only area where one can make a living.
The government has already introduced many programs to help the young implement their projects. At least, here we can talk about a political will of the state to financially support those who hold ideas that aim at creating jobs. It is, therefore, wise to open a mature dialogue between the government and the unemployed. The government should facilitate the task for the young to set up their businesses. The graduated should rely on their competence and most importantly have the confidence in themselves, instead of blaming their failure on the government.
