Morocco: Disputes arise over Pioneer Schools program

The Pioneer Schools program in Morocco is facing significant criticism regarding textbook shortages and selection transparency. The Moroccan Booksellers Association has warned of a shortage of required textbooks for these institutions, causing distribution chaos and difficulties for students and families. The association has called on the Ministry of National Education to investigate the causes of the shortage and to monitor the distribution process to ensure books reach bookstores on time.

In the Nador region, labor unions have expressed outrage over the exclusion of several educational institutions from receiving the Pioneer Schools label and associated grants. The Democratic Confederation of Labour (CDT) has questioned the transparency and fairness of the selection criteria used to determine beneficiary schools. Local unions have announced planned protests to demand official clarifications regarding the selection process and to advocate for the rights of educators who were excluded from project-related benefits.