Moroccan parliament debates student exam boycott figures

Minister of Higher Education Abdellatif Miraoui faced skepticism from Moroccan Parliament members and parents over his figures on the ongoing boycott of exams in medical and pharmacy schools. Miraoui claimed 40 percent of students were boycotting exams, but lawmakers like Mustafa Ibrahimi disputed this, stating surveys showed less than 5 percent participation.

The government’s handling of the crisis affecting 25,000 students at risk of failing was criticized, with calls for Prime Minister intervention. Parents and lawmakers argued that the boycott rate was much higher than stated, with some suggesting figures as high as 97 percent.

Deputies demanded exemptions for the first five cohorts from a decision to reduce training years from seven to six. Miraoui defended the decision, stating it would not compromise quality. He also addressed other issues like outdated disciplinary processes and student demands for two exam sessions per semester.

The debate highlighted the need for better communication and resolution to prevent further disruption in the education sector.