Leaving and returning to the village Non-permanent mobility of rural young people in the Saïss region (Morocco)

Abstract

This article analyzes the role of the non-permanent mobility of rural youth in the territorial development in the agricultural plain of the Saiss in Morocco. This mobility refers to the frequent moves by young people for relatively short periods, to study and work, with frequent returns to the area. We conducted interviews with 80 young men and women from Ait Ali. The results showed that young people are mobile at an early age as they pursue education and seek professional training elsewhere. Mobility is pursued with the search for work, depending on each person's professional profile. These moves enable young people, especially men, to gain work experience, ensure the transfer of knowledge and skills to the farm, and stimulate private initiatives, such as agricultural projects. However, mobility of young women is limited compared to that of young men and often negatively perceived. Obtaining little social recognition in farming activities, young women seek other economic opportunities for their personal development and to raise their self-esteem. Consequently their mobility does not contribute in the same way to the territorial development as the mobility of young men.