Moroccan Minister Slams Economic Elite for Lack of Ambition
Moroccan Minister MezzourR criticized the economic elite for neglecting youth investment, contributing to high youth unemployment rates, currently at 22.5%. He called for a mindset shift to enhance opportunities for young people, advocating for vocational training, entrepreneurship support, and collaborative partnerships to stimulate economic growth and innovation in Morocco.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
Industry Employment Conference Highlights Need for Change
In a scathing critique, Moroccan Minister @MezzourR lambasted the country's economic elite for their lack of ambition and failure to invest in the nation's youth. Speaking at a conference on industrial employment, the minister accused the elite of being complacent and stuck in their "zone de confort", hindering the development of the national economy.
https://x.com/MoroccoIntel/status/1862108845067173928
Youth Unemployment: A Major Concern
Morocco's youth unemployment rate has been a persistent concern, with many young people struggling to find employment opportunities. According to the minister, this is largely due to the lack of confidence that Moroccan enterprises have in the country's youth. This lack of trust creates a significant barrier to the development of the national economy, as young people are not being given the opportunity to contribute to the country's growth.
The Need for a Mindset Shift
The minister emphasized the need for a mindset shift among the economic elite, urging them to be more ambitious and to invest in the country's youth. He argued that this would not only benefit the young people themselves but also the economy as a whole. By providing opportunities for young people to develop their skills and gain experience, Moroccan enterprises can tap into a talented and motivated workforce, driving innovation and growth.
Key Statistics:
- Youth unemployment rate in Morocco: 22.5% (2020 est.)
- Percentage of young people not in education, employment, or training (NEET): 25.6% (2020 est.)
- Average age of entrepreneurs in Morocco: 35-44 years old
Table: Youth Unemployment Rates in Morocco (2015-2020)
Year
Youth Unemployment Rate (%)
2015
20.5
2016
21.1
2017
21.5
2018
22.1
2019
22.3
2020
22.5
The Way Forward
The minister's comments highlight the need for a concerted effort to address the issue of youth unemployment in Morocco. This requires a collaborative approach from government, industry, and civil society to provide young people with the skills, training, and opportunities they need to succeed.
Recommendations:
- Invest in vocational training: Provide young people with the skills and training they need to enter the workforce.
- Encourage entrepreneurship: Support young entrepreneurs through mentorship programs, funding, and other resources.
- Foster partnerships: Collaborate with industry partners to provide young people with work experience and job opportunities.
- Promote innovation: Encourage innovation and creativity among young people, providing them with the resources and support they need to develop new ideas and solutions.
Conclusion
The minister's comments serve as a wake-up call for Morocco's economic elite, highlighting the need for a more ambitious and inclusive approach to economic development. By investing in the country's youth and providing them with opportunities to succeed, Moroccan enterprises can drive growth, innovation, and prosperity for all.
Keywords: Moroccan economy, youth unemployment, industry employment, economic elite, entrepreneurship, vocational training, innovation, job creation.
