A national scientific colloquium opened Wednesday in Rabat to examine how social media platforms are reshaping social and cultural value systems in Morocco. Organized by the École normale supérieure (ENS) in partnership with the Ministry of Solidarity, Social Inclusion and the Family, the event aims to diagnose the psychological and educational effects of digital interaction on younger generations.
Why are digital platforms being analyzed in Morocco?
Naima Ben Yahia, the Minister of Solidarity, Social Inclusion and the Family, stated in an opening speech that the digital space has emerged as a new actor in households through screens. She noted that this shift creates unprecedented challenges for value systems and influences youth behavior.
The Minister explained that education is no longer limited to the traditional roles of the family, the school, and the mosque. She called for a national partnership involving families, the education system, media, and content creators to combat disinformation and hate speech through critical thinking.
The colloquium’s theme focuses on the transition from digital interaction to the recomposition of social and cultural frameworks. It seeks to provide a scientific diagnosis of how digital platforms shape societal consciousness.
The ENS-led training session associated with this colloquium lasts for 15 days and serves more than 200 students.
What role does the university play in digital awareness?
Mohamed Ghachi, President of Mohammed V University of Rabat, said studying the impact of digital spaces and algorithms on youth trends is a core academic and practical responsibility. He described these scientific operations as essential steps to strengthen digital awareness.
Ghachi also emphasized that such research helps immunize cultural references against digital shifts. The university’s involvement aims to address the changing tendencies of the younger population.
The transition of educational influence from traditional institutions like the family and school to digital platforms suggests a significant shift in how social norms are transmitted and reinforced in modern society.
How will students participate in this initiative?
El Madani Chikhi, an ENS professor and member of the organizing committee, announced a parallel training session titled “The impact of social media discourse on the value system in Morocco.” This program is designed to deepen scientific debate regarding digital transformations.
The training aims to provide participants with tools to analyze digital content through the lens of values. It also focuses on developing digital awareness projects to promote responsible platform usage.
The ongoing colloquium and training sessions may lead to the formulation of practical recommendations. These proposals could aim to moralize digital discourse, strengthen digital citizenship, and use virtual platforms as tools for educating users on national and universal values.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who organized the scientific colloquium in Rabat?
The event was organized by the École normale supérieure (ENS) in partnership with the Ministry of Solidarity, Social Inclusion and the Family.
What is the main goal of the colloquium?
The colloquium aims to analyze digital transformations and the impact of digital platforms on behaviors, societal consciousness, and value systems.
What kind of training is being provided to students?
A 15-day training session is being held to teach over 200 students how to analyze digital content and develop projects for responsible digital usage.
How do you think digital platforms influence local cultural values?
