**Moroccans to Hold Sit-In Protest Over Non-Recognition of Northern Cyprus Degrees**
Rabat, Morocco – A group of Moroccan nationals who studied at universities in northern Cyprus are planning to hold a sit-in protest outside the Ministry of Education in Rabat. This protest comes in response to the Moroccan government's refusal to recognize degrees awarded by institutions in the northern part of Cyprus, a decision that has left many students and graduates in a difficult position.
The coordination committee representing the affected students and graduates announced their intentions after what they described as exhausting various dialogue and institutional avenues to address the issue. According to Moroccan news outlet 24saa, the committee stated that they have “exhausted various dialogue and institutional means” and, in light of the lack of “fair and practical solutions,” they have decided to take their grievances to the streets.
Historically, Moroccan authorities had recognized degrees from northern Cyprus as equivalent to those obtained in Morocco and other countries. This recognition was based on the validation of these degrees by Turkey’s higher education council. However, a significant policy shift occurred in 2024 when Morocco ceased to recognize these degrees, affecting students who were studying in Cyprus at the time, as well as those who graduated in 2023 and 2024.
Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita addressed the issue in April, stating that Morocco’s stance on non-recognition of northern Cyprus directly impacts the equivalence of university degrees obtained from institutions in that region. He emphasized that this position makes it impossible for Moroccan authorities to verify the validity of these degrees or grant them legal status.
Bourita's remarks followed inquiries from Morocco’s opposition Justice and Development Party (PJD), which sought clarification on the government’s policy regarding the recognition of degrees from northern Cyprus. He mentioned that a “series of meetings” would be held with impacted graduates and their families, as well as with officials from the education ministry, to discuss the matter comprehensively.
Despite these assurances, Bourita remained firm in his refusal to recognize the universities in northern Cyprus. He expressed concerns that any administrative or technical engagement with these institutions could be interpreted as tacit recognition, particularly given the lack of international recognition for northern Cyprus. He pointed out that the absence of United Nations recognition necessitates a cautious approach from Morocco in handling this sensitive issue, which aligns with the kingdom's diplomatic principles.
Bourita also indicated that the process of degree equivalence could be misused as a means to indirectly recognize the northern Cyprus entity. He noted that the incentives and facilities offered to Moroccan students studying there could fall within this context, which complicates the situation further.
As the sit-in protest approaches, the affected students and graduates are calling for a resolution that acknowledges their educational qualifications while respecting Morocco's foreign policy stance. The protest aims to draw attention to their plight and to urge the government to reconsider its position on the recognition of degrees from northern Cyprus.
The situation remains tense as students prepare to demonstrate their frustrations outside the Ministry of Education, seeking a fair resolution to a matter that has significant implications for their future careers and educational aspirations.