Moroccan Universities to Introduce Arabic in Science, Engineering, and Medicine

Rabat — Morocco has taken a decisive step in reshaping its higher education system with the publication of Official Gazette No. 7430, which enacts provisions of Framework Law No. 51.17 on the education and training system.

The measure enforces that universities and professional schools that rely on foreign languages of instruction include at least one module in the Arabic language within their scientific, technical, and professional programs, which are mostly taught in foreign languages.

Framework Law No. 51.17, adopted by Parliament in 2019, laid out a roadmap for an ambitious reform of Morocco’s education system.

One of its central pillars is the concept of linguistic engineering, designed to restore the role of Arabic in higher education while maintaining Morocco’s commitment to multilingualism.

Article 32 of the law explicitly requires the introduction of a course taught in Arabic in programs where instruction is primarily delivered in foreign languages.

The publication of this decision in the Official Gazette on August 14 is what gives it binding force.

It transforms the provision from legislative text into a legal requirement, compelling institutions such as faculties of science, engineering schools, and medical colleges to adapt their programs accordingly.

For the first time, Arabic will formally enter domains of higher education that have long been dominated by French, English, or Spanish.

This development carries both symbolic and practical significance. On the one hand, it reinforces the position of Arabic as a language of knowledge and science, reflecting Morocco’s cultural and linguistic identity.

On the other hand, it represents a concrete shift in the academic landscape, as universities now face the task of rethinking curricula to align with the new linguistic requirements.

The entry into force of this measure through Official Gazette No. 7430 marks the beginning of a new phase in Morocco’s educational reform.

It signals the country’s determination to balance its long-standing tradition of multilingual education with a renewed commitment to ensuring that Arabic plays a central role in scientific and professional training.