Economic Challenges and Education Costs: How Will Changes in Support Programs Affect Children and Vulnerable Groups?
As expected, textbook prices have risen significantly, especially for imported books in French and English used in private education. In this context, the government council has approved the cancellation of the “Million Schoolbags” program, which started in 2008, and its replacement with direct financial support for families.
The decision includes providing 200 dirhams for primary and secondary students, and 300 dirhams for secondary education, provided that families are registered in the unified social register.
Questions About the Adequacy of Financial Support
The new financial support has raised many questions about whether it is sufficient to cover the costs of school supplies. Are 200 dirhams enough to buy a schoolbag with the necessary books and notebooks? Or will families find themselves forced to allocate this amount to other needs, especially in the context of rising living costs?
Who Is the Real Beneficiary?
Although the government has stated that the support will be directed to the most needy families based on the social and economic indicator, many families complain of being excluded. This raises questions about the fairness and effectiveness of this indicator. Can it truly be an accurate measure of the economic situation of families? And what about those who cannot communicate to report their exclusion from the support?
Consequences of Canceling “Million Schoolbags”
Idriss Azami El Idrissi, President of the National Council of the Party of Justice and Development and former Minister of Budget, considered that canceling “Million Schoolbags” might be a good step in terms of governance. However, he warned of the exclusion that might result from relying on the social indicator. Could this decision lead to depriving a wide range of children of basic school tools? Will the modest financial compensations lead to a deterioration in education quality and an increase in school dropout rates?
Views of Society and Small Bookstores
Opinions on the decision vary between supporters and opponents. While some view the program as draining public funds with no real benefit, others believe that families will face significant challenges in managing school supplies. On the other hand, small bookstores see the decision as an opportunity for economic boost, as it will allow families to shop at various points of sale, potentially revitalizing the small bookstore sector.
The Future of Education Amid Economic Challenges
With these decisions, the main question remains: How will changes in social support programs affect the future of education in Morocco? Will the government be able to balance financial support for families while maintaining the quality of education? What will happen to the children who might be affected by the absence of “Million Schoolbags”?
With each school year, Morocco loses about 340,000 students due to school dropout. This figure puts more pressure on the government to provide sustainable and effective solutions. But are 200 dirhams really enough to secure the future of these children?
