English Studies in Morocco: Soft Skills At The Core

As Morocco’s job market continues to evolve, higher education institutes and universities are being called to prepare students not only with academic knowledge but also with the soft skills needed to succeed in dynamic workplaces. 

In English studies departments, this challenge is particularly pressing, as graduates often pursue careers in education, communication, or business fields where interpersonal and professional competencies are essential.

“Nowadays, English studies’ relevance, prominence, and worthiness reside in promoting Morocco’s job market,” says Sana Sakale, ELT expert and professor at Ibn Tofail University. “One big favorable side of soft skills’ integration is to foster self-engagement and help students gain more grounded knowledge, which may, in turn, empower them to boost the job market.”

According to the Moroccan expert, soft skills like interpersonal communication – both verbal and written – alongside collaboration, critical thinking, and adaptability, are increasingly vital. “These skills give students a sense of direction and help them integrate within their university community,” she adds. “Problem solving, prioritizing tasks, managing time efficiently, and adapting to diverse work environments are all part of the essential skills Moroccan students must develop.”

However, building these competencies within the framework of a traditional academic system is not without challenges. 

“Some of the obstacles may be linked to curriculum constraints,” she explains. “There’s limited space for soft skills development, and traditional teaching and assessment methods still dominate, focusing more on theoretical knowledge rather than its practical application.” Sakale also points to a lack of resources and funding as a key barrier.

Despite these hurdles, efforts are being made to help students develop the needed skills. At Ibn Tofail University, the English department offers project-based courses and hands-on workshops that emphasize teamwork, communication, and leadership. 

“Our department includes project-based learning to develop problem-solving skills,” the professor notes. “We also support extracurricular activities like debating clubs, cultural events, and volunteering opportunities that foster soft skills.”

The role of professors themselves is central to this transformation. “They orchestrate and model soft skills by demonstrating them in their own teaching practices,” Sakale says. “They lead by example, provide constructive feedback, and encourage participation in activities that go beyond the classroom.”

As someone who has attended numerous student-led panels and witnessed debates and presentations in different Moroccan universities, I can attest to a growing enthusiasm among both students and faculty to close the gap between theory and practice. Students are no longer just consumers of knowledge; they are becoming active participants in shaping their educational experience.

Looking ahead, professor Sakale recommends structural reforms that embed soft skills more deeply into the curriculum. “We need to make soft skills development an integral part of English studies,” she says. “That means project-based learning, industrial and commercial partnerships, and regular workshops that offer practical, real-world experiences.”

By embracing these strategies, Moroccan universities can ensure that English studies graduates are not only articulate and analytical, but also adaptable, confident, and ready to thrive in the modern workforce.