The new site of the French international high school Paul Pascon, belonging to the MLF Morocco network, marks a new milestone in educational cooperation between Morocco and France. Located on a 2-hectare plot, with 3,500 m² of built area, the institution aims to be modern and inclusive. It will significantly increase its capacity to accommodate up to 600 students, from kindergarten to high school, with accreditation for all levels. Multilingual teaching will be provided, including Arabic, English, and Spanish.
During this event, Christophe Lecourtier emphasized the importance of this project in bilateral relations. “Culture and education play a prominent role in cooperation between France and Morocco,” he said. He added, “This institution illustrates our ability to realize ambitious projects for the youth and our common future.”
The diplomat also recalled that this project is part of the commitments made by French President Emmanuel Macron during his state visit to Morocco in 2024, at the invitation of King Mohammed VI. “This achievement, realized in just over a year, demonstrates our joint commitment to take concrete action for the youth, especially in Laayoune,” he affirmed.
Apart from education, Christophe Lecourtier highlighted the region’s development dynamics. “This type of initiative reflects a resolute orientation towards the future, based on strong partnerships and concrete actions in several sectors,” he emphasized. He also announced the upcoming opening of a French Alliance in Laayoune to enhance cultural exchanges and knowledge sharing.
The president of the MLF Monde network, Christian Masset, stressed the overall purpose of the institution. “With this new site, we are reaching a decisive milestone,” he declared. “This place was designed not only for learning but also for personal growth, experimentation, and creativity,” he added. He specified that the school is equipped with modern facilities including scientific laboratories, knowledge centers, sports spaces, and age-appropriate classrooms.
The general director of MLF Monde, Jean-Marc Merriaux, focused on the international openness of the institution. “Integrated into a network of over 100 establishments worldwide, this high school will allow students to develop their sense of interculturality and better understand contemporary challenges,” he confirmed.
During the inauguration, the French ambassador and his delegation held meetings with local authorities, including the wali of the Laayoune-Sakia El Hamra region, the president of the communal council, and the president of the regional council. These discussions revolved around the region’s development dynamics and the prospects for enhancing educational and cultural cooperation in the southern provinces.
The ceremony was attended by various institutional leaders, including the general director of the French Institute in Morocco, Agnès Humruzian, as well as elected officials, and members of associations and cultural actors. Inaugurated for the first time in 2012, the French international high school Paul Pascon is embarking on a new phase of development, focused on the future and educational excellence.
