The economic impact of Morocco’s tourism industry provides funding for the development of public universities in Morocco, allowing students to pursue higher education at no cost. However, increased access to education leads more individuals to seek careers in fields that align with their studies rather than tourism, posing a threat to an industry that largely contributes to Morocco’s economy and funds public higher education itself. The image shows a group of tourists on camels in the Agafay Desert. A large contributor to Morocco’s economy is the tourism industry, with many people working in riads and hotels, restaurants, and medinas selling goods and souvenirs. Others offer experiences and activities like camel rides or provide other services. These industries generate massive amounts of revenue for Morocco, which the government can use to invest in other industries. Morocco’s institutions of higher education are largely public, meaning fully funded by the government and state. Because of this, the revenue from tourism helps fund higher education, allowing Moroccan individuals to attend a university free of charge, and aids in the investment in and development of these institutions. Increased access and affordability allow for more individuals to attend these institutions, and after getting degrees, they seek jobs that align with their studies. However, because of the large tourism industry in Morocco, some graduates from these universities may look internationally for job opportunities if the industries that align with their studies are not as prominent in the country, leading to a loss of workers and brain drain. With fewer workers, there could be a decrease in economic growth, resulting in the government having fewer funds to put into these institutions. Over time, this may slow the development of higher education in Morocco.
