Rabat – Morocco’s Minister of Culture Mohammed Mehdi Bensaid has outlined a strategy to incorporate the English language in the country’s media landscape.
The initiative is set to leverage budgetary allocations to ensure the successful integration of the English language into the sector.
The minister made the statement in a recent session addressing the development and modernization of the audiovisual sector in the Chamber of Representatives. He emphasized key initiatives focusing on strengthening Morocco’s national production and cultural sovereignty.
Notably, the minister highlighted the collaboration with major broadcasting entities like the Moroccan Public Broadcasting Company (SNRT), the 2M TV channel, Medi 1 TV, and Medi 1 Radio.
Part of the strategy involves the creation of guidelines aimed at enhancing national production, including documentaries centered around Moroccan cultural heritage and the country’s rich history, Bensaid noted.
These guidelines also extend to reinforcing the presence of national public channels on digital platforms, using video-on-demand services, programmed political debates, and embracing the English language.
The minister stressed the importance of a comprehensive program agreement for the success of this strategy.
Efforts are underway to establish such an agreement, with collaboration between the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry delegated to the budget, focusing particularly on the development of the public audiovisual sector, especially for 2M.
Bensaid highlighted the evolution of public television since its inception. He noted that the recent audiovisual pole project has ushered in a new era, underscoring that the social and financial conditions of public channel staff are central to this reform.
Parallel to these developments, there is a noteworthy surge in interest in the English language in Morocco. The English language is gaining popularity among Moroccans, and there is a growing inclination to replace French with English, especially among younger people.
This shift is not only observed in informal settings but is becoming a more prominent aspect of official initiatives.
The government is accelerating efforts to integrate English into the national education system. Plans are underway to introduce English language instruction at various educational levels, reflecting the recognition of English as a crucial global language.
This move aligns with the broader vision of preparing the younger generation for international communication and participation. The emergence of English in Morocco goes beyond mere linguistic preference, signifying a strategic response to the demands of a globalized world.
