Morocco’s higher education reform bill aims to diversify university funding, boost governance

A new draft law on higher education and scientific research in Morocco proposes sweeping changes to the way public universities are funded and governed, including the ability to receive support from local governments and the private sector, invest in private companies, and create their own corporations.

The proposed legislation, Bill No. 59.24, was circulated by the General Secretariat of the Government to ministers and secretaries of state. It seeks to strengthen university autonomy and financial resilience by “diversifying funding sources through enhanced self-generated revenues and encouraging public-private partnerships,” according to a copy of the text obtained by Hespress AR.

Under the bill, university revenues could include state subsidies, but also financial contributions from local governments, public institutions, and private sector entities. Additionally, universities would be permitted to generate income through their own innovation, training, and research activities.

Article 47 of the draft allows public universities to invest in private enterprises in line with national legislation and establishes the right to create joint-stock companies, referred to as “Institutions for the Development of Training, Research, and Innovation.” The university must hold at least 34% of the capital in any such company.

The bill outlines a new governance structure for universities, which would be overseen by two main bodies: a University Council and a newly established Board of Trustees.

The Board of Trustees would include the Minister of Higher Education, the Minister of Finance, the permanent secretaries of both the Academy of the Kingdom and the Hassan II Academy of Science and Technology, as well as the regional governor (wali) and the president of the regional council where the university is located.

The board would also feature two economic and social figures, and two experts in higher education and research — all appointed by the Minister of Higher Education. Additionally, a faculty representative and a member of the administrative and technical staff would be elected to serve on the board.

According to Article 32, the Board of Trustees must meet at least twice a year to evaluate and update the university’s strategic development plan, review performance reports, and approve operational programs.

Separate from the Board of Trustees, the University Council would remain responsible for the day-to-day academic and administrative direction of the university. Chaired by the university president, the council would include representatives from affiliated institutions, the regional education authority, local government, private sector, faculty, staff, and students.

The council’s duties, as defined in the bill, would include approving multi-year development strategies, reviewing budgets, enhancing educational offerings, proposing new university institutions, and approving the establishment of research centers. It would also be responsible for accepting donations and bequests.

The draft law represents one of the most comprehensive reforms to Morocco’s higher education system in recent years, aiming to enhance university performance, responsiveness to market needs, and overall educational quality.

If passed, the legislation could mark a shift toward greater institutional independence and closer ties between academia, regional authorities, and the private sector.