By Ebi Kesiena
Morocco’s King Mohammed VI celebrated his 60th birthday on Monday away from the public eye, as challenges abound almost a quarter century after he ascended the throne.
The monarch is credited with effectively maintaining stability in a volatile region in part, through suppressing criticism as well as modernizing the economy and pursuing assertive diplomacy, grinded official ceremonies in recent years.
The monarch decided in 2019 to end the tradition of extravagant birthday celebrations, which typically took place at the royal palace in Rabat.
This decision mirrored earlier orders to curtail festivities associated with Throne Day, in a bid to direct resources toward crucial development projects and socio-economic growth.
Born on August 21, 1963, King Mohammed VI is the twenty-third ruler of the Alaouite dynasty. He assumed the throne after his father, the late King Hassan II, passed away on July 23, 1999.
The King’s educational journey played a pivotal role in shaping his vision for Morocco. He obtained his baccalaureate degree in 1981, before gaining a bachelor’s degree in law in 1985 from the Mohammed V University in Rabat.
The same year he completed his bachelor’s degree, King Mohammed VI was appointed as colonel major of the Royal Moroccan Army (FAR).
Continuing his pursuit of knowledge, King Mohammed VI earned a higher studies certificate (CES) in political sciences in 1987 and a Master of Advanced Studies (DEA) in public law in 1988.
These academic achievements underpinned his dedication to informed governance and strategic decision-making.
However, the King’s birthday coincides with Youth Day, a national holiday that the country commemorates on August 21 each year.
