Authorities in Morocco are reviving a centuries-old tradition to celebrate top Quran students, marking the end of the academic year with public ceremonies in several cities.
Known as “Sultan al-Tullab” the celebration honors those who have completed memorization of the entire Quran, a practice that dates back to the 17th century under Sultan Moulay al-Rashid in the former capital of Fez.
Over the past week, festive processions took place in the cities of El Hajeb and Boufekrane, featuring top students carried on horseback in a symbolic re-enactment of the historical ritual. The chosen “sultan” is selected from among the most accomplished memorizers and accompanied by peers acting as a ceremonial entourage.
Abderrahmane Boukili, president of the Imam Warsh Association for Quranic Studies, said the celebration is a culmination of a structured Quranic school year.
Students are assessed at various levels, with early learners memorizing five sections and more advanced ones up to twelve before progressing. The top distinction goes to those who complete the entire Quran.
“The focus is on excellence,” Boukili told local media. “This is not only about memorization, but also academic achievement across religious, linguistic, and scientific disciplines.”
He added that the ceremonies aim to encourage younger generations, motivate families, and reinforce Morocco’s religious traditions. The events are followed by evaluations for newly enrolled students, including aptitude and placement assessments.
The “Sultan al-Tullab” tradition was largely suspended during the colonial period but has seen a gradual revival in recent decades. Today, it is supported by civil associations and receives growing institutional recognition, becoming a cultural marker for Quranic achievement across the country.
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