While there are numerous primary and secondary institutions dispersed throughout Misrata, higher education is concentrated at Misurata University. Following the ouster of former President Muammar Gaddafi, significant efforts have been made to overhaul the education sector to make up for limits previously placed on the curriculum, including the prohibition on instruction in English. The expectation is that Libyans will receive 13 years of schooling, and data from the UN Development Programme shows male and female students have equal access to primary and secondary instruction.
Obstacles to education and systemic disparities have been a significant challenge in countries across North Africa and the wider Middle East, and the Covid-19 pandemic further exacerbated the situation. Prior to the pandemic, ongoing conflicts in countries like Iraq, Libya, Syria and Yemen had disrupted education provision, making it difficult for children and youth to receive quality instruction. As was the case elsewhere globally, the pandemic rendered students unable to attend schools in person for periods ranging from 4.5 to 14 months.
Libya is taking steps to address these challenges and strengthen the education infrastructure in Misrata as well as other cities in the country. The Ministry of Education came to an agreement with the minister of national education, preschool and sport in Morocco to enhance learning opportunities in the two countries. It encompasses various collaborative initiatives, including exchanging information and expertise in the preparation and training of educational, administrative and technical personnel.
Additionally, the agreement emphasises ICT integration in the education sector, promoting partnerships between academic institutions in both countries, and encouraging male and female students to actively participate in scientific, sporting, and cultural events and competitions. The memorandum of understanding also makes it easier for academic and scientific researchers to collaborate by facilitating joint ventures and site visits.
The Libyan Ministry of Higher Education recently sent a delegation to Malta for discussions about higher education with Louis Galea, Malta’s minister of education, youth and employment. The discussions centred around critical areas such as English-language instruction, consultancy services, quality assurance, accreditation and the exchange of technical expertise. To further their collaboration,
both parties agreed to establish a joint working group to delve into these topics and work together on their implementation. During its trip, the Libyan delegation visited educational institutions in Malta, including the University of Malta, the Institute of Tourism Studies, and the Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology to gain a deeper understanding of the education landscape in Malta.
Misurata University, located in the city of Misrata, is well respected among Libya’s universities and in the region. Established in 1984, the university underwent a transformative merger in 2010 when it united with Seventh October University and Elmergib University. This consolidation was driven by the decision of the General People’s Committee No. (149) in 2010, which aimed to restructure Libyan universities.
The university’s focus is to equip its academic community with vital skills and values to contribute to national progress. With multiple locations throughout the district, the university comprises more than 20 faculties and offers 152 undergraduate courses. Its mission revolves around providing exceptional higher education and training, empowering students and staff to actively engage in Libyan society and participate in economic modernisation and development efforts. As a key player in the education environment in Misrata, Misurata University is committed to applying its research and findings to address economic, social, cultural and technological challenges.
Read More from OBG
