Morocco’s Medical Student Dispute Enters a New Phase of Negotiation
The ongoing dialogue between Moroccan medical students and the government has entered a new, more hopeful chapter, according to Minister of Higher Education, Scientific Research, and Innovation, Abdelaziz El Midaoui. Speaking before the Parliament’s Education, Culture, and Communication Committee during the 2025 budget discussions, El Midaoui acknowledged the societal significance of the situation, describing it as a sensitive issue that has captured public attention.
El Midaoui emphasized a break from the past approach to the dispute. Upon taking office, he prioritized meeting with the students alongside Health Minister Khalid Ait Taleb, demonstrating a commitment to open communication. This dialogue, he noted, has fostered trust and led to positive initiatives from the students, signaling a de-escalation of tensions.
The minister‘s comments come amidst growing calls for a swift resolution to the challenges facing medical education in Morocco. Parliamentary representatives echoed the urgency of the situation during a five-hour debate, highlighting the need for a timely exit from the crisis. El Midaoui confirmed the government’s awareness of this urgency and the shared desire for a solution.
A key element of the current phase is the involvement of the Kingdom’s Ombudsman institution (Institution du Médiateur du Royaume). El Midaoui stressed the importance of respecting this constitutional body and its ongoing mediation efforts. He described a process where student demands are conveyed to the Ombudsman, who in turn relays the minister’s proposals, all under the supervision of the Prime Minister. This
