Higher Council for Education: Morocco’s Schools Not Fully Prepared for Future Crises

Rabat – Morocco must strengthen its education system to ensure that students continue to receive quality learning even during crises such as pandemics or natural disasters, according to a new report presented Tuesday in Rabat by the Higher Council for Education, Training, and Scientific Research.

The report, titled “Resilience of the Moroccan Education System: Ensuring Pedagogical Continuity and Quality Learning in Times of Crisis – School Education,” examines how Morocco handled recent emergencies, especially the COVID-19 pandemic and the Al Haouz earthquake, and whether the right to quality and equitable education was fully protected.

The study was prepared by the Council’s Standing Committee on Curricula, Programs, Training, and Educational Tools. It argues that resilience in education is not simply a technical issue, but a strategic choice. According to the report, Morocco needs to build a school system that can protect learners during difficult times while also adapting to future challenges.

The Council recalls several strengths shown during recent crises. The education system was able to shift quickly to new learning methods, mobilize teachers and staff, and adapt programs while offering academic, psychological, and social support to students. These efforts helped limit some of the negative effects of school closures.

However, the report also revealed important weaknesses. At the institutional level, it found that the system lacked strong anticipation and preparation for crises. It also pointed to rigid curricula that were not flexible enough to respond quickly to disruptions. In addition, the report noted gaps in teacher training and limited effectiveness of remedial and support programs.

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Amina El Merini El Wahabi, who presented the report, explained that the study examined resilience at several levels, including institutional structures, curricula, infrastructure, and community engagement. She said that while the system demonstrated important strengths, the crises exposed structural vulnerabilities that need urgent attention.

Among its recommendations, the report calls for stronger strategic governance and better documentation of how crises are managed in order to build what it describes as an “educational memory.” It also stresses the need to improve real-time education information systems and to involve universities and research centers in developing solutions.

The Council emphasizes the importance of focusing on basic learning, organizing structured remedial support, strengthening psychological and social assistance for students, and preventing school dropout. It also calls for better support for teachers and for the development of stable hybrid learning models, especially in areas exposed to risks.

The report recommends integrating the concept of resilience clearly into national education frameworks in the medium and long term. It also encourages strengthening life skills, critical thinking, and a culture of risk management and civic responsibility. 

The Council further calls for building a strong institutional digital system that guarantees equal opportunities and ensures sustainable training for teachers. This includes upgrading infrastructure to meet climate resilience standards and creating temporary alternatives to maintain learning during emergencies are also seen as key priorities.

MWN with MAP