The place of young Moroccans in the economy and civic life

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On March 26, a workshop was organized for researchers, surveyors, experts and ministerial departments who work on the issue of youth exclusion. The objective was to inform these important actors of the research in progress and to benefit from hearing their points of view and their perspectives on the work in a participatory approach.

Background

The population of Morocco is estimated at 31 million and nearly 36% are between the ages of 15-34 (11 million). The unemployment rate among youth is nearly 16%, compared to 11% for the overall population. 

Youth also offer a unique demographic opportunity to establish a strong growth base. Their marginalization from society will continue to have negative ramifications.

Objectives

·       Analyze the obstacles of economic, social and civic inclusion of youth;

·       Identify the factors contributing to the promotion of including youth in the economy and the encouraging their societal contribution as productive citizens.

·       Propose activities to eliminate constraints, reduce risks and take advantage of opportunities for integrating youth into society.

Approach

The study was completed in two parts by a team of Moroccan researchers, computer specialists, field testers, field researchers, monitoring officers in the field, qualitative research assistants, and World Bank experts.

The first phase consisted of collecting existing demographic information and identifying the information gaps on the subject. A preliminary report was produced at the end of this first phase.

The second phase focuses on certain themes identified in the first phase and will attempt to propose some solutions.

It is focused on collecting new information via two methods:  

·       A representative quantitative study at the national level identifying the different categories of youth.

·       Focused qualitative studies aiming at different categories of youth and the key actors playing an important role in the factors of inclusion/exclusion. (Heads of businesses, educators, NGO representatives and political parties, centers and youth associations, ministries of youth, national education, etc)

The final report on the study is based on:

·       Moroccan youth between inclusion and exclusion.

·       Programs and policies targeting youth.

·       How to encourage youth inclusion through creating opportunities, strengthening capacities and creating second chances.

Two other reports will soon be completed on “The inclusion of youth in the economy” and “The inclusion of youth in civic life”.