Morocco Sets September 7 School Start Date, Teaching Format Uncertain Amid Pandemic

The Head of Government met with the Minister of National Education and representatives of two private education associations, who have expressed their preference for face-to-face teaching. But the Minister of Education has specified that "the final decision will depend on the evolution of the epidemiological situation in Morocco". He nevertheless assured that he will ensure that everyone can have "equitable and identical access to education, regardless of the teaching method adopted".

The school year will start on September 1 under the theme: "For a renewed, equitable, civic and inclusive school", with the resumption of positions by the administrative and inspection staff, the staff in charge of financial management, the guidance and educational planning and administrative, educational and social support staff, and the common administrative staff.

The ministry has also chosen September 2 as the deadline for the teaching staff, of all grades, to resume their positions. The period from September 1 to 5 will be devoted to "the completion of the various technical aspects related to the start of the school year, in order to ensure the good conditions for the start of classes in the various educational establishments". The first classes, which will take place from September 7 to October 3, will be devoted "to the diagnosis and assessment of students’ achievements before the start of support courses", the same source specifies.