Catalyzing Change: SSEC Elevates Social Science Education in Morocco

In a significant stride toward enhancing critical thinking and societal understanding, the Social Science Education Consortium (SSEC) is spearheading an ambitious initiative in Morocco. Over five dynamic days of discovery, conferencing, and excursions, SSEC, in collaboration with Cadi Ayyad University (UCA) and the Moroccan Center for Civic Education (MCCE), is making a profound impact on the promotion of social sciences and sustainability.

This initiative aligns seamlessly with MCCE's mission to foster political participation among youth in Morocco and the broader Maghreb region. By uniting experts and enthusiasts from over 20 universities, including prominent institutions from the US, the endeavor aims to build momentum and raise awareness about the vital role of social sciences in shaping a sustainable society.

Themed "Social Science Education for Just and Sustainable Societies," this landmark event marks SSEC's inaugural annual gathering in Africa and Morocco. Adil Bentahar, Co-Chair of the conference and Associate Professor at the University of Delaware, underscores the significance of hosting this event in Morocco. He notes that this opportunity showcases Morocco’s ability to organize high-profile events and underscores the nation's commitment to advancing education and social sciences.

Beyond the enhancement of history, geography, and civic and economic education, the organizers are empowering PhD students in Morocco by inviting them to actively participate and share the stage with distinguished speakers. Ikram Douaou, a doctoral student in English Studies, volunteered as part of the organizing committee for the conference. "This experience has enhanced my organizational and communication skills, which are crucial for my professional development," said Douaou. She emphasized how the conference provided a unique platform to engage with education specialists—professors, teachers, and researchers worldwide—offering diverse perspectives that enriched her own research pursuits.

For the organizers, involving doctoral students in this conference is paramount. These students gain the invaluable opportunity to co-present with their professors, fostering a unique learning experience and a platform for collaboration on both current and future research projects. "This event is an opportunity for foreign-based academics to learn about the research findings, best practices, and success stories of Moroccan academics, including doctoral students," said Bentahar.

By participating as volunteers, these students enhance their professional experiences, acquiring practical skills and insights that will be beneficial post-graduation. This deliberate engagement not only enriches their academic journey but also prepares them to become future leaders in academia. Partnering with the Ministry of Education, Bentahar highlighted MCCE's support for civil society initiatives to promote civic education and drive curricular innovation in global citizenship education.

Amy Allen, President of the Social Science Education Consortium, remarked on Morocco's leadership in advancing Sustainable Development Goals, making it an ideal host for a conference focused on the global impact of social sciences. "The theme of the conference really focused on what the social sciences can offer globally toward just and sustainable societies. Having this conference in Morocco felt like a logical and strategic choice," she said. She added, "Further, the partnerships we have been able to forge, as a result of working together in an academic and scientific space with scholars based in and from Morocco, will help further social science research in a meaningful way."