The National Agency for the Development of Oasis Areas and Argan Trees (ANDZOA) and the Souss-Massa’s Regional Academy for Education and Training have signed a partnership agreement aimed at improving educational services and promoting sustainable development in the region.
In a statement shared with Morocco World News, ANDZOA said the signing took place on the sidelines of the recent Administrative Council meeting of the regional academy.
The meeting included local officials, members of ANDZOA, and the governor of the Souss-Massa region.
With a total value of MAD 34 million, the agreement focuses on upgrading infrastructure in rural and semi-urban areas, enhancing the educational experience, and supporting students with disabilities. ANDZOA will contribute MAD 10 million to the collaborative initiative.
The agreement includes several initiatives, including improving school conditions in rural and semi urban areas, as well as replacing dilapidated schools with new education facilities.
The initiative covers construction and equipment of six ecological preschool units, in addition to the development and implantation of a program to raise awareness among students and teachers about sustainable development education.
According to ANDZOA’s statement, the agreement also aims to equip 60 boarding schools with solar water heaters and washing facilities. The establishment of reading and study spaces in 20 girls broadening schools in addition to improving school conditions for children with disabilities.
Recent statistics from the Ministry of Education said in June this year that Morocco’s dropout rate was estimated at 294,458 in the 2022-2023 season, with 45.5% originating from rural areas and 38.64% among girls.
According to the ministry’s figures, 62% of those who leave school are aged over 16.
