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Youth

Street Theater School in Morocco Faces Opposition from Radical Islamists

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

In a small patch of scrubland on the outskirts of Rabat, Morocco's capital, a street theater school has been set up by Mohammad al-Assouni to teach young boys and girls somersaults, dancing, tightrope-walking, and other skills. However, the school's proximity to radical Islamists living nearby has led to conflict, with the extremists ripping out the pipe and cable to bring water and power to the school's tent. Despite the challenges, the school has attracted over 260 students, many of whom work to supplement their parents' meager income and have little time for play. The school's founder, Assouni, and his wife Soumia, hope that the self-control and talent of their young trainers will make them powerful role models for the children and encourage them to return to school.

Key Takeaways:

  • The street theater school in Morocco has been forced to shut down due to opposition from radical Islamists, who have ripped out the pipe and cable to bring water and power to the school's tent.
  • Over 260 students have enrolled in the school, but many do not turn up regularly due to conflicting schedules.
  • The school's young trainers, all from poor backgrounds, have shown exceptional self-control and talent, making them potential role models for the children.
  • Morocco has one of the worst school drop-out rates in the Arab world, with only one child in 10 completing their education, according to UNICEF.
  • The country has embarked on an "Emergency Program for the Reform of Education" to address the issue of youth unemployment and ensure trained graduates to compete in world markets.
  • The school's founder, Assouni, believes that his initiative can make a significant impact by saving four or five children from being lost to the streets.

Statistics:

  • Over 260 students have enrolled in the street theater school.
  • Only one child in 10 in Morocco completes their education, according to UNICEF.
  • Morocco has a school drop-out rate of 90% (1 in 10).
  • The "Emergency Program for the Reform of Education" aims to reform education in Morocco by 2012.
  • The youth unemployment rate in Morocco is high, breeding despair and making it easier for violent Islamist groups to recruit new members.

Sources:

  • Reuters, SALE, Morocco (undated)
  • UNICEF (undated)
  • World Bank Report (2007)
  • The Daily Star, Copyright 2009, All rights reserved.

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