Rabat — Morocco’s most talented young graduates have made a dramatic shift in their career preferences, choosing government jobs as their first pick rather than private sector, according to a major new survey.
The human resources consulting firm Careers surveyed over 1,000 recent graduates from Morocco’s most prestigious universities and business schools between June 26 and July 22. The results show a complete reversal from previous generations, who typically sought private sector careers.
The survey assessed drivers of graduates’ decisions, revealing that job security ranked as their top priority, chosen by 38% of respondents. Salary and benefits came second at 27%, followed by social prestige at 23%. Career advancement opportunities ranked last at just 14%.
The results mark a significant change in mindset, as most graduates nowadays prioritize stability over entrepreneurial challenges and international opportunities that used to attract previous generations.
Among government ministries, the survey results show that the Ministry of Economy and Finance dominated 43% of graduate interest, due to its combination of prestigious assignments, strategic visibility, and solid career prospects.
The Interior Ministry followed closely with 32% support, attracting those who want to work in governance and public administration.
The Ministry of Energy Transition and Environment captured 14% of interest, appealing to graduates passionate about green innovation. The Ministry of Equipment and Water drew 11%, particularly popular with civil engineers excited about projects related to the 2030 World Cup.
In the public enterprise sector, OCP maintains its dominant position. Morocco’s phosphate giant attracts 41% of graduate interest through its large-scale industrial projects and competitive salaries.
The survey also revealed other major public companies that draw significant interest from graduates, including Morocco’s ONEE, which captured 16% with its strategic energy and water projects.
Meanwhile, ONCF attracted 13%, benefiting from Morocco’s expanding rail infrastructure, while ONDA and MASEN drew 9% and 8% respectively.
The report also indicated that specialized graduates find their niches in the public sector, with the telecommunications regulator ANRT attracting 7% of tech-focused graduates, while the national tourism board ONMT drawing 6% of those interested in marketing and tourism.
Government salaries now compete with private sector
The report revealed that new graduates’ rush toward government employment stems from concrete changes, as it opted for repeated salary increases and reforms that have narrowed the pay gap with private companies over recent decades.
In some cases, public sector compensation now exceeds private sector offers.
The survey concludes that engineers, business school graduates, and architects now see government work as more than just job security but as a path to professional fulfillment and social recognition.
This transformation reflects broader changes in Morocco’s economy and society. As the government launches major infrastructure projects and modernization initiatives, the report found that public sector careers offer young professionals the chance to contribute to their country’s development while enjoying stable, well-compensated employment.