Morocco to revamp ph.d. scholarship system, premier

Morocco will revamp its Ph.D. research scholarships system as of 2003-2004 in order to enable post-graduate students prepare their diploma in the best material conditions, said here Monday prime minister, Driss Jettou. Speaking at the opening ceremony of a workshop, held here May 26-27, to assess Morocco's scientific research system, Jettou said the national system will be, for the first time, assessed by outstanding European experts, in the framework of an exemplary partnership with Moroccan specialists

The assessment of our scientific potential will enable the country to consolidate its research capacities in all fields, Jettou said.

Morocco's objective is to allocate, before the end of the decade, 1% of its GDP to research financing, the head of the Moroccan government said, adding that to reach it, "we have an excellent qualified human resources potential. Its mobilization and encouragement can transform the sector in Morocco and provide a significant added value to our economy." The upgrade of Morocco's competitiveness is closely linked to its ability to promote knowledge and contribute to its development.

On his part, minister of higher education, executive training and scientific research, Khalid Alioua, stressed the need to reconsider the situation of researching professors.

Alioua said the results of the assessment will make it possible to better define the national strategy of scientific research, calling for a reform of higher education and scientific research, and the mobilization of national scientific potential to achieve research programs linked to Morocco's development.