MP Highlights Unfair Distribution of University Scholarships in Boulemane
In a significant move to address educational equity, Zahra Barhiyoui, the Member of Parliament representing the Fès-Meknes region, has formally questioned the Minister of Higher Education, Scientific Research, and Innovation regarding the urgent need to reassess the criteria and standards governing university scholarships. She specifically advocates for the Boulemane region, which has been unfairly disadvantaged in the allocation of scholarships, and seeks an increase in the number of beneficiaries from this area.
Barhiyoui pointed out that Boulemane, like many other regions lacking university hubs, continues to grapple with this issue despite repeated assurances from responsible authorities. This situation has led to significant dissatisfaction among students from the region, who are compelled to travel to urban centers to pursue their academic goals, often facing challenging socio-economic circumstances that their families endure.
Furthermore, she noted that the lack of access to university accommodations adds to the already dire circumstances affecting both students and their families. The decline in the number of scholarships awarded to Boulemane is particularly alarming, especially considering that this region experiences notable levels of poverty, vulnerability, and school dropouts.
In her remarks, Barhiyoui highlighted that other regions often receive a disproportionately high percentage of scholarships, surpassing those allocated to Boulemane, even though these areas are equipped with universities. This disparity perpetuates regional inequalities and undermines the principle of equal opportunities.
Barhiyoui's inquiry also pressed for clarity on the measures the ministry plans to implement to rectify this situation and to enhance the scholarship allocation for Boulemane. She emphasized that scholarships should serve as incentives to encourage students in their academic and research endeavors, rather than being viewed merely as financial aid determined by the socio-economic status of their families.
As reported by adyare.ma.
