Morocco’s Experience with Gender Gap Reduction in Education

Abstract

This article presents a synthesis of the policies and measures for girls' education in Morocco and attempts to evaluate their results. It analyzes a wide range of initiatives and provides an overview of their relevance and impact in the Moroccan context. In Morocco, the lack of educational opportunity for girls is still evident, despite significant actions taken by the government. The article identifies the most promising approaches and priority areas for the development of girls' education. Its purpose is to provide an analysis of the situation of gender and education in Morocco, and to take stock of the extent to which gender equality and girls' right to education are protected and promoted. It also aims to reflect upon and discuss the scope of the legal framework in terms of the provisions of gender equality under law. The article also identifies and discusses the root causes of school attrition and illiteracy among women and the most important hurdles that require urgent attention, further proposing a meaningful integration of the gender perspective in schools and in the overall education system. This article advocates for full and equal educational opportunities for all, girls and boys alike, in policy and in practice.

Women and Gender Relations during the Pandemic in Morocco

“…This has meant that, for several decades, women's lives in Morocco and other North African and Middle Eastern (MENA) countries have been subdued and oppressed, whilst outdated habits and customs have been maintained in order to limit women's freedom and emancipation, especially in terms of their choices and decisions. Despite progress made at closing the gender gap in education, women have yet to attain decision-making positions, whether in the private or the public sphere (Abu-Habib, 2020;Ennaji, 2018;Sadiqi & Ennaji, 2006).…”

“…xviii Since 1983, Morocco has engaged in a large structural adjustment program to clean and improve the economic environment. This program has had a positive impact on the macro-economy, but some bad consequences on the micro-economic level: increase of unemployment (16 percent), stagnation of salaries, low level of education and health services (Ennaji, 2018;Friedman, 2010).…”