Did Teacher Participation in Census Impact School Start? Minister Addresses Concerns
Morocco’s Education Minister Reassures Public: Census Participation Won’t Disrupt School Year
In a press conference held on Friday, Morocco’s Minister of National Education, Preschool and Sports, Chakib Benmoussa, addressed concerns regarding the impact of educator participation in the national population and housing census. He reassured the public that the census work would not significantly disrupt the academic calendar or the education process.
Benmoussa explained that involving educators in the census is a common practice due to their skills and on-the-ground presence. He emphasized that the impact on classroom time would be minimal. With approximately 17,000 education professionals participating, representing 30% of the total census workforce, their temporary absence from schools is expected to have a limited effect.
Addressing concerns about resource allocation, the Minister clarified that the digital tablets used for the census were funded through an agreement between the Ministry and the High Commission for Planning. These tablets will be repurposed for educational use in schools after the census, enhancing language learning and providing supplemental support to students.
Overcoming Challenges: Education in the Wake of the Al Haouz Earthquake
Shifting focus to the aftermath of the devastating Al Haouz earthquake last year, Benmoussa affirmed that the Ministry has successfully navigated the educational challenges it presented. The immediate priority was the safe return of students to their studies. Temporary solutions were implemented to ensure the continuity of education, coupled with psychological support for those affected.
A comprehensive system was mobilized to address the crisis and improve learning conditions in the impacted areas. Benmoussa highlighted the gradual improvement in these regions, with ongoing engineering studies to guarantee the safety of students and educational institutions. While Chichaoua remains the only province where tents are still being used for schooling, other affected areas have transitioned to more stable solutions.
The Minister concluded by emphasizing that while the current measures ensure the continuity of education, rebuilding damaged schools remains a critical task. The Ministry is committed to providing a safe and supportive learning environment for all students, especially in the face of adversity.
