Investing in Morocco’s Future: Celebrating Youth and King Mohammed VI’s Vision
This past Wednesday, August 21st, 2024, marked a joyous occasion in Morocco: the 61st birthday of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. Celebrated nationwide and beyond, this day also holds special significance as Youth Day, a testament to the King’s unwavering commitment to empowering young Moroccans as the driving force of the nation’s future.
Youth Day is more than just a celebration; it’s a powerful symbol of the importance placed on nearly a third of the population – the youth – who are considered the true wealth of Morocco. It’s a time to reflect on the progress made in supporting their aspirations, to evaluate existing initiatives, and to strategize on further strengthening their contributions to the political, economic, and social advancement of the country.
Since ascending to the throne 25 years ago, King Mohammed VI has spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at providing concrete opportunities for young people in crucial areas like education, employment, and healthcare. Recognizing the vital role of quality education, the King has consistently emphasized its importance in his speeches, advocating for accessible and relevant learning opportunities that pave the way for professional integration, cognitive development, and social mobility. This focus on education is seen as a shield against ignorance, poverty, and the allure of extremism.
This commitment translates into tangible action. The establishment of vocational training centers, socio-sports complexes, and financial aid programs for young entrepreneurs are just a few examples of the King’s vision for inclusive and sustainable human development.
One shining example of this vision is the “Cités des métiers et des compétences” (CMC) program. This ambitious roadmap for the development of vocational training, with a projected investment of 4.4 billion dirhams, aims to establish 12 CMCs across the Kingdom. These multi-sector vocational training platforms are expected to welcome 34,000 trainees annually, equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in the modern workforce.
King Mohammed VI’s deep care for Moroccan youth was eloquently expressed in his latest Throne Day speech. He highlighted their ability to captivate the world with their talent and patriotism when given the right platform, citing the national football team’s impressive performance in the recent World Cup as a prime example.
Beyond sports, the King has also lauded the ingenuity and innovative spirit of young Moroccans, pointing to achievements like the production of the first Moroccan-made car and the development of a hydrogen car prototype by a young Moroccan inventor. These examples underscore his belief that Morocco’s progress hinges on a flourishing, skilled, and engaged youth population actively participating in societal evolution while respecting the richness and diversity of their national identity.
Youth Day in Morocco is a celebration of potential, a testament to royal commitment, and a powerful reminder that investing in young people is investing in a brighter future.
