Regional Childcare Conference for Eastern and Southern Africa : What Can We Learn from Morocco’s Preschool Expansion Experience?

Overview & Synopsis

This presentation examines Morocco’s rapid expansion of preschool services and the lessons it offers for scaling childcare systems. Following a national commitment in 2018 to achieve universal preschool enrollment for children aged 4-5 by 2027, Morocco increased enrollment from 45 percent in 2017 to 80 percent in 2024 through a public-private partnership model involving government agencies, foundations, and local organizations. The presentation highlights significant gains in rural access, gender equity, job creation, and service quality, supported by strong oversight, educator training, and national quality standards. It concludes that effective partnerships, local government engagement, continuous innovation, and a strong focus on quality can accelerate the expansion of childcare and early learning services while supporting broader development goals.