MARRAKECH – TERRE DES JEUNES

In Morocco, there are some 2 million children aged between 14 and 18 who are illiterate. Within this age group, 38% live on the streets. These are alarming statistics. So, in 2005, Terre des Jeunes was set up to combine the protection of the environment, together with the re-integration of these children into the working world.

One of the project's aims is to develop a site located 5km from Marrakech with professional training areas and gardens, in order to train young people to become apprentice gardeners. This way, they will hopefully gain employment within local hotels, as well as developing their vocational skills. The project also plans to improve literacy skills and provide ongoing support whilst they are in work.

Terre des Jeunes has major support from several hotels and local tour operators in and around Marrakech, many will employ the boys after their initial 10-month training period. With all the rubbish problems in Morocco, the project has also now started focusing on the environment, so children can learn to recycle and help to keep their city clean.

When time permits, a visit to Terre des Jeunes is arranged on the following trips:

• Mt Toubkal Climb (TMM)
• Peaks & Valleys of the Atlas (TMT)
• Mt Toubkal Winter Climb (TMW)
• Mt Toubkal Long Weekend - (Trip Code: TMY)