The Alliance of Istiqlali Economists (AEI) recently unveiled a comprehensive strategy to tackle Morocco’s escalating unemployment crisis, emphasizing the need for sustainable and decent job creation in both rural and urban areas. As unemployment reaches alarming levels, AEI’s 20-point vision offers a robust blueprint for bridging the gap between labor supply and demand.
Training and Skills Development
AEI proposes launching accelerated training programs that incorporate both soft and technical skills, tailored to high-demand sectors such as tourism, personal services, coding, and emerging industries like aerospace and green energy. By attracting trainers domestically and internationally, including retirees and Moroccans abroad, these programs aim to equip the workforce within ten months.
Youth Inclusion and Regional Investment
To address youth unemployment, AEI suggests creating a “Solidarity Fund for Generations” to finance rapid retraining and full-time internships. Additionally, regional investment funds should support small and medium enterprises through training, mentoring, and incubation services, fostering local entrepreneurship and innovation.
Support for Rural Employment
Recognizing the challenges posed by climate change in rural areas, AEI recommends enhancing infrastructure, promoting rural tourism, and supporting small-scale agricultural production. Initiatives such as creating cooperatives and local processing centers for agricultural products can improve rural livelihoods and employment.
Formalizing Informal Economy
AEI’s strategy includes gradually integrating informal businesses into the formal economy with a phased tax and social contribution plan. This approach aims to provide these businesses with access to public contracts and other economic benefits, thereby boosting formal employment.
Encouraging Industrial and Technological Growth
AEI advocates for accelerating industrialization through public-private partnerships, developing new industrial hubs, and promoting sectors like ecological tourism and renewable energy. The focus on technological advancement, particularly in artificial intelligence, is crucial for fostering innovation and creating high-value jobs.
Conclusion
AEI’s ambitious recommendations present a holistic approach to Morocco’s employment challenges. By focusing on training, youth inclusion, rural employment, formalizing the informal economy, and fostering industrial and technological growth, AEI’s vision can drive sustainable job creation and economic development. The government’s commitment to these proposals will be pivotal in ensuring a prosperous future for Morocco.