Moroccan medicine students shout slogans during a demonstration against a controversial bill that enforces them to work in public health services during a two-year period after finishing their studies, on October 28, 2015, in the capital Rabat. AFP PHOTO / FADEL SENNA (Photo by FADEL SENNA / AFP)
The Ombudsman Foundation announced the success of its mediation initiative between the administration and medical and pharmacy students. As an independent constitutional institution, it fostered effective institutional communication, leading to students returning to their classes and clinical field training. This mediation put an end to nearly eleven months of protests, which had escalated to a full boycott of classes and exams.
In a statement released this Friday, the Foundation highlighted that this outcome reflects the combined efforts of all parties involved and exemplifies productive coordination between the Ombudsman and other stakeholders. The dialogue created an environment conducive to trust-building and facilitated an exchange of perspectives, which resulted in solutions that met constitutional and legal standards while addressing the expressed demands.
The Foundation also commended the positive and responsible involvement of various authorities, including the Prime Minister, the Minister of Higher Education, the Minister of Health, deans of medical schools, representatives of faculty and students, and several civil society organizations.
Finally, the Foundation emphasized the importance of continuing peaceful dialogue based on trust and goodwill, ensuring the quality of medical education and contributing to the nation’s health system’s advancement, aligning with King Mohammed VI’s vision. It also called on all stakeholders to foster a supportive ground for continuous communication, benefiting medical training and public education in Morocco.
