Revitalizing youth centers in Morocco: 7,000 new partnerships ignite potential

Morocco’s Ministry of Youth has signed an impressive 7,000 partnership agreements with youth-focused associations and clubs aimed at rejuvenating youth centers nationwide. This initiative is part of the 2024-2025 national program for youth institutions, which was unveiled by Minister Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid during a parliamentary session.

In response to inquiries from the Istiqlal group regarding the condition of youth centers, Bensaid emphasized that these partnerships are designed to bolster local organizations working within youth centers or their respective communities. This strategic move reflects the ministry's ambition to restore the significance and vibrancy of these public institutions.

“We want youth centers to embody the energy and aspirations of young Moroccans,” Bensaid stated. “This initiative goes beyond mere infrastructure; it involves offering meaningful programs.”

Under the newly implemented strategy, the ministry has upgraded 150 youth centers with modern educational and recreational tools, including digital games and diverse learning materials. Bensaid noted that these enhancements align with efforts to provide young people with varied experiences, spanning the realms of arts, culture, and professional development.

Additionally, the ministry launched ASAS, a certification program focused on socio-cultural animation, and established over 100 training hubs within youth centers to enhance the leadership and management skills of local associations.

Central to this initiative are two digital platforms: animateur.ma, which offers resources and tools for youth workers, and jam3iya.ma, designed to streamline internal management for the centers.

The ministry has also prioritized volunteerism by creating themed clubs and collaborating with both national and international organizations. A new series of national youth festivals is in the works, featuring activities inspired by Morocco’s rich cultural heritage, including traditional games, theater, music, storytelling, and folklore.

Bensaid highlighted the ongoing renovations of youth centers under a rehabilitation plan initiated in 2021, with the final phase expected to conclude this year.

“What matters most is not the number of centers, but the spirit they embody,” Bensaid remarked. “Young people deserve spaces where they feel acknowledged, heard, and supported.”

Morocco's recent efforts to revitalize youth centers underscore a broader vision of empowerment through community engagement, culture, and creativity. With invigorated spaces, new partnerships, and an expanding digital ecosystem, the country is affirming its belief in the potential of its youth as key agents of change.