Moroccan Artist’s Appointment to Higher Education Board Sparks Controversy
The appointment of Moroccan artist Latifa Ahrar to the board of the National Agency for Evaluation and Quality Assurance of Higher Education and Scientific Research (ANEAQ) has ignited a firestorm of debate on social media. The Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research, and Innovation’s decision has raised serious questions about selection criteria and equal opportunity in Morocco’s academic landscape.
Ahrar, currently the director of the Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts and Cultural Activities, will serve a three-year renewable term, pending approval by the Prime Minister. The appointment is based on Law 80.12, concerning the ANEAQ, and Decree 2.15.666, issued in June 2016. However, many are questioning the relevance of Ahrar’s background to the complexities of evaluating higher education quality. Critics argue that numerous qualified Moroccan academics could have filled this crucial role, and that appointing an artist undermines the principle of meritocracy and equal opportunity.
This controversy comes at a pivotal time for Moroccan higher education. The nation is striving to improve educational quality and strengthen evaluation standards, making the selection of appropriate leaders for such positions paramount. The ANEAQ plays a vital role in shaping the future of Moroccan universities and research institutions. Its responsibilities include program accreditation, institutional reviews, and promoting quality assurance culture. These tasks require a deep understanding of academic processes, research methodologies, and the challenges facing higher education.
A source from the Ministry of Higher Education, speaking to the Moroccan news outlet Belyab, stated that the appointment followed established procedures for selecting a representative from non-university institutions, based on a proposal from the Coordination Council. However, this explanation has done little to quell the public outcry. Many see the appointment as a political move, potentially overlooking the expertise needed to navigate the complexities of higher education evaluation.
The new Minister of Higher Education, Abdellatif Miraoui, is facing intense scrutiny over this decision, particularly following his early successes in resolving a medical student crisis and halting questionable ministry contracts. This controversy casts a shadow over his initial achievements and raises concerns about the direction of his leadership. The public is questioning whether university professors, with their extensive experience in academia, would have been more suitable for the position.
The debate surrounding Ahrar’s appointment highlights a broader concern about the representation of different sectors in decision-making bodies. While diverse perspectives can be valuable, critics argue that specialized expertise should be prioritized in areas like higher education evaluation. The effectiveness of the ANEAQ hinges on the competence and credibility of its board members. The public’s reaction underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in these appointments. The future of Moroccan higher education depends on ensuring that qualified individuals are entrusted with shaping its trajectory. This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for dialogue and reform within the Moroccan education system.
