Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane has made history by becoming the first institution outside the United States to join the LearningWell Coalition, an exclusive network of universities committed to reimagining higher education through a student-centered approach. This milestone not only signals a significant shift for Moroccan academia but also reinforces the American-style educational model that defines Al Akhawayn’s mission.
The LearningWell Coalition brings together prestigious institutions such as MIT, Georgetown, Tufts, and the University of Southern California. These universities share a common vision: transforming the university experience to better support student well-being, purpose-driven learning, and long-term success beyond graduation.
Al Akhawayn’s entry into this network comes through its innovative “Paths to Purpose” initiative—a comprehensive program designed to help students explore their aspirations and align their academic choices with meaningful life goals. This four-year journey includes a mix of guided modules, personal mentoring, and immersive learning experiences that evolve as students progress through their degrees.
Starting from their first year, students take part in a curriculum inspired by the “Design Your Life” framework, which promotes a human-centered, reflective approach to decision-making. Support continues throughout their studies with one-on-one advising, a digital portfolio system, and in-depth seminars—especially within the university’s Honors Program. The curriculum encourages students to reflect on their sense of purpose through interdisciplinary methods that combine ethics, civic engagement, and the social impact of their future careers.
To ensure the effectiveness of this model, Al Akhawayn has developed tools to track student growth and measure the long-term influence of its programs. These efforts have already caught the attention of Harvard University’s Human Flourishing Program, a key partner in the global conversation around well-being in education.
In an official statement, Al Akhawayn University President Amine Bensaid emphasized the importance of guiding students early on, helping them make informed academic and career choices. He pointed out that many students face unnecessary last-minute course or career shifts—something structured support could help prevent. For Bensaid, the ultimate goal is a holistic strategy that balances student well-being, personal fulfillment, and professional readiness—ideals that resonate deeply with the expectations of today’s Generation Z.
Keith Buffinton, Executive Director of the LearningWell Coalition, praised Al Akhawayn’s vision, describing it as a model that reflects the coalition’s core principles. He highlighted the university’s thoughtful, impact-driven philosophy and its commitment to shaping an education that genuinely improves lives.
