Fez — Mohamed Nabil Benabdellah, Morocco’s Minister of National Education, Preschool Education, Vocational Training, and Qualification, welcomed student Khadija Boumlik in Rabat on Monday, November 2.
The meeting celebrated Boumlik’s fourth-place finish at the 2026 “Arab Reading Challenge” in Dubai, where she also received a special award.
Boumlik received the distinction from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai.
Originally from Morocco’s Rehamna Province, the young student distinguished herself through her eloquence, public speaking abilities, and an extraordinary commitment to reading.
Boumlik has read more than 400 books, demonstrating remarkable discipline and a passion for knowledge beyond the classroom.
A celebration of Morocco’s public schools
The reception brought together Boumlik’s father, her supervising teacher Ismail Tikiki, and Khadija Farhat, principal of Tlauh Middle School.
Officials from the Marrakech-Safi Regional Academy of Education and Training and the Rehamna Provincial Education Directorate also attended.
During the meeting, Benabdellah praised Boumlik’s command of language, expressive abilities, and confidence in presenting her ideas before an international audience, according to MAP.
He described her achievement as an example of what Morocco’s public education system can produce when talent meets dedication, perseverance, and effective guidance.
The minister also congratulated her family, teachers, and school administrators, recognizing their contribution to her academic development and international success.
For Boumlik, the recognition was an opportunity to express pride in representing Morocco at an international event devoted to reading and intellectual achievement.
She thanked King Mohammed VI, the Moroccan public, her family, and her educators for their encouragement throughout the competition.
The student also encouraged young people to read more, describing books as an important means of developing knowledge, confidence, and intellectual independence.
Competing among millions of young readers
The 10th edition of the “Arab Reading Challenge” concluded in Dubai on October 29, bringing together students from across the Arab world and beyond.
The 2026 competition attracted 40,286,428 participants from 60 countries, its largest participation since launching in 2015.
Egyptian student Mayar Mohammed Ragab Othman won the overall title, followed by Ghazal Tayyem of Palestine and Rayan Al Zakeri of Saudi Arabia.
Boumlik’s special recognition was also announced by Morocco’s Ministry of Education on October 29, celebrating her performance throughout the competition.
The initiative promotes Arabic reading, comprehension, critical thinking, and self-expression while encouraging students to develop lasting relationships with literature.
