King Mohammed VI has launched a package of social and educational reforms aimed at addressing the demands of Generation Z, which has been mobilising across the country since late September. The budget for health and education will increase by 16% by 2026, reaching 140 billion dirhams, with the aim of improving services and creating opportunities for young people.
Protests, led by the Gen Z 212 movement, have taken place continuously in cities such as Rabat, Casablanca and Tangier. Young people are demanding improvements in education, more jobs and effective measures against corruption, denouncing the disconnection between the government and the daily reality of youth.
Among the main initiatives, the government will offer campaign subsidies to candidates under 35 years of age and simplify the requirements for political participation. In addition, the modernisation of parties will be promoted and the participation of women and youth in political management will be encouraged.
The plan also envisages a renewal of the health infrastructure, with the creation of new hospitals and the upgrading of 90 existing hospitals. In education, the aim is to ensure wider access to pre-school education and to improve the quality of training in rural areas, where inequalities remain marked.
Despite the measures, young people remain somewhat distrustful. Many believe that the effects of the reforms will only be visible in the long term, while their main demand is for quick and concrete changes in their daily lives.
The outcome of these policies will be key in determining whether Morocco succeeds in connecting with Generation Z and appeasing their mobilisations. In the meantime, the streets continue to be the scene of demonstrations, reflecting the determination of a generation demanding a voice and recognition in the country's decision-making.
Source: france24.com; en.yabiladi.com