Morocco’s National Ministry of Education has raised alarms over the increasing incidence of smoking among schoolchildren, particularly those aged 13 to 15, where rates have escalated to 6%. In response, the ministry is urgently calling on national and regional officials, along with the heads of educational institutions, to intensify efforts against this troubling trend.
Officials have linked smoking to significant academic challenges, including underperformance and increased dropout rates. The ministry also expressed concerns about smoking leading to various forms of deviant behavior among students.
In a move to curb the rising smoking rates, the Ministry has mandated the installation of ‘No Smoking’ signs across all educational facilities, in adherence to Law No. 15-91. Moreover, there is a strong push for both administrative and educational strategies to discourage the use of traditional and electronic cigarettes within these establishments.
Educators are urged to set positive examples for students and to take an active role in anti-smoking initiatives. The ministry is also advocating for student participation in developing and implementing smoking rehabilitation programs, emphasizing the critical role of community and leadership in combating teens smoking.
