The Morocco Ministry of Education has maintained that regional unified examinations for first-year baccalaureate students were conducted under satisfactory conditions, even as allegations of student intimidation and psychological pressure emerge from human rights groups.
The ministry said 570,696 students sat for the regional exams held between June 1 and June 2, representing about 82.2% of enrolled candidates. It added that the exercise was carried out in line with principles of merit, fairness, and equal opportunity.
Officials also defended tightened security measures introduced during the examination process, including stricter controls for the protection of exam papers during printing, storage, and transportation. The ministry reported 4,929 cheating cases, a sharp increase of 167% compared to the June 2025 session.
However, the conduct of the exams has sparked controversy. The Moroccan Center for Human Rights alleged that the deployment of anti-cheating devices created what it described as “environments resembling interrogation and intimidation,” raising concerns over student well-being during the examination period.
The rights group also claimed that inspection teams arrived late in some centres, causing delays of 15 to 40 minutes and resulting in the loss of valuable exam time for candidates. It further argued that such disruptions undermined equal opportunity and inflicted psychological stress on students.
While acknowledging the importance of protecting the credibility of national qualifications, the group criticised what it called a “security-based approach” to examination management, urging authorities to adopt more balanced and student-friendly methods.
The ministry has, however, insisted that the measures were necessary to safeguard academic integrity and ensure the credibility of national diplomas.
Results for the regional examinations are expected to be released on July 9, while the broader national baccalaureate examination cycle continues across the country.
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