Parliamentary report reveals alarming conditions in Moroccan university dormitories

A recent parliamentary exploratory mission has revealed troubling conditions in university dormitories across Morocco, raising critical questions about the government’s oversight and the urgency of reform. 

The final report, presented and debated in the House of Representatives, highlighted several long-standing issues that affect tens of thousands of Moroccan students relying on these facilities for housing, food, and healthcare.

One of the key findings relates to the halted development of “university nuclei, projects once agreed upon by regional and local councils under the previous government. 

Many of these initiatives were paused during the current administration, despite their potential to ease overcrowding and improve services in existing dormitories.

The report underscores the poor state of catering services, noting the absence of a daily meal schedule and insufficient food portions, with meat servings reportedly do not exceeding 60 grams.

 Food quality, according to students, deteriorates after the start of the academic year. Alarmingly, some students suspect the use of substances in meals that cause drowsiness. The report also notes excessive wait times at dining halls, often exceeding 30 minutes.

Inspectors found hygiene and safety standards lacking in several facilities, especially in food storage and preparation areas. 

Students frequently re-cook meats to improve quality. Catering staff reportedly follow the directives of contracted private companies, directly affecting food standards.

In the health sector, the report cites a severe lack of medical staff, often limited to just two people per dormitory, as well as a lack of emergency equipment such as oxygen tanks. 

Students voiced dissatisfaction with the availability and responsiveness of healthcare services.

Overcrowding remains a major issue, with rooms meant for four residents often housing six or more, due in part to informal hosting of students without official accommodation. 

Security is also a concern, with some rooms occupied by unauthorized individuals and technical maintenance issues left unresolved.

The report concludes by calling for urgent reforms, particularly around food quality, healthcare services, accommodation capacity, and security enforcement within university housing systems.