Morocco Bans Students from Leaving School at Lunchtime to Improve Safety
Morocco’s Ministry of Education has announced a new regulation prohibiting students from leaving school during lunch breaks and free periods. The ministry aims to create a safer school environment by providing secure spaces and supervised activities, particularly for students who cannot return home at lunchtime. In a circular sent to regional and provincial education authorities, schools were instructed to prevent students from being outside school grounds between 12:00 and 14:00, as well as during any free periods. The regulation is especially important for students who live far from school or lack transport options. In Morocco, public schools operate on a double-shift system, with classes held from 08:00 to 12:00 in the morning and from 14:00 to 18:00 in the afternoon. This schedule has meant that many students spend their lunch breaks outside school premises. The ministry stated that the new measure aims to enhance student safety, reduce absenteeism and dropout rates, and support academic achievement. It also emphasised that the initiative will help make schools safer and more inclusive spaces.