National Union of Higher Education calls for strike against Bill 59.24

The National Office of the National Union of Higher Education has announced a nationwide strike across all university institutions on February 3, 4, and 5, in protest against the adoption of Bill No. 59.24 on higher education and scientific research, which it says was approved without taking into account the demands of the most representative union in Moroccan universities.

The union criticized the government for failing to adopt a participatory approach in drafting the bill, describing the text as «flawed both in form and substance».

According to the union, the strike will include a boycott of all teaching activities, practical and scientific work, as well as meetings across all higher education institutions and research centers during the strike days. Exams, events, conferences, and previously scheduled scientific meetings, however, will be exempt from the strike.

It is worth noting that the House of Representatives gave final approval to Bill No. 59.24 on higher education and scientific research during a second reading held on Tuesday, January 20, 2026.

In a press release, the Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research, and Innovation welcomed the bill’s adoption, praising what it described as an atmosphere of serious debate, constructive interaction, and joint work throughout the drafting, discussion, and voting stages. The ministry said this collective engagement reflected institutional maturity and contributed to the success of what it described as a key legislative reform, aligned with its intended objectives.