Job Search Strategies Amid Economic Crises in Morocco

In the face of successive economic crises and rising unemployment rates, job searching in Morocco has become increasingly challenging. Many young people and degree holders have adopted new strategies to penetrate a highly competitive and volatile job market. According to the latest data from the High Commission for Planning (HCP), the unemployment rate in 2024 reached 13.5%, with the rate among young people aged 15-24 exceeding 32%. This highlights the fragile economic situation and the difficulty of professional integration, particularly due to slow growth and limited investment opportunities.

In response to this reality, many young people have diversified their job-searching methods by relying on specialized digital platforms and professional networking sites, particularly LinkedIn, instead of relying solely on traditional methods such as social mediators or paper ads. The International Labour Organization (ILO) has stated that the digital shift has created new opportunities for job seekers but has also presented challenges related to digital skills and the ability to quickly adapt to market changes.

Self-training through Online Platforms has also become a strategic option for many young people seeking to enhance their technical and language skills through open educational platforms such as Coursera and Udemy. According to UNESCO recommendations, lifelong learning has become a key pillar for professional integration, especially in countries that face a significant gap between the outputs of education and the demands of the labor market.

In the absence of sufficient opportunities in both the public and private sectors, some job seekers have turned to freelancing and self-initiated projects through the “Self-Employed” program, which has provided a way out for many unemployed individuals despite challenges related to financing and administrative oversight. Economic experts argue that entrepreneurship is no longer just a last resort but a rational choice that reflects a shift in both individual and collective awareness of professional integration methods. This shift requires supportive measures and effective encouragement.

On the other hand, the option of migration remains a prominent choice for many young Moroccans, particularly those with technical and medical specializations, despite the increasing barriers imposed by migration policies in several European countries. Reports from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) indicate that Morocco is among the countries with high rates of professional migration in search of broader opportunities and a more stable future.

Amid this landscape, the biggest challenge remains the mismatch between education and the labor market. According to professionals and experts, a fundamental revision of guidance and education policies is required, linking them with the needs of both the national and global economy. Furthermore, boosting investment, encouraging individual initiatives, and improving public services related to employment are crucial. Despite the crises, success opportunities still exist, but they are increasingly linked to individuals’ ability to adapt, embrace new skills, and innovate in shaping their professional paths.

Source: Fes News Media

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