Innovation took center stage in Ifrane over the weekend, where the second edition of the Bankathon, hosted by Al Akhawayn University (AUI) in partnership with CIH Bank, concluded on Sunday. Sixty students from various fields competed to devise inventive solutions aimed at propelling Morocco toward a cashless economy by 2030.
Guided by 20 mentors, participants used artificial intelligence and digital technology to develop projects across the spectrum of payment digitization. Their concepts ranged from mobile apps and contactless payment methods to systems designed to make banking accessible to the unbanked population. This bold vision for a “cash-free” Morocco reflects an ambition to foster financial inclusivity and streamline daily transactions nationwide.
Speaking at the event, CIH Bank’s Deputy General Director Younes Zoubir highlighted that initiatives like the Bankathon align with CIH Bank’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy, which aims to encourage innovation and entrepreneurial skills among Morocco’s emerging talent. “Our teams were deeply impressed by the quality and maturity of the projects, as well as by the commitment of the students,” Zoubir remarked, adding that several projects show strong development potential and will receive support from the bank for further implementation.
Deborah Bartlett, Head of Employability and Entrepreneurship at AUI, emphasized the value of such events in preparing students for professional challenges, noting, “The CIH Bankathon goes beyond mere competition; it’s a true learning platform that lets students apply their skills to real-world issues while collaborating with industry experts.”
This year’s competition produced some outstanding projects. Claiming the top spot was “Cash Pay Plus,” a mobile app enabling transactions without a bank card, using QR codes to facilitate cashless exchanges for merchants, taxi drivers, and small business owners. Mohammed Khalil Ben Maarouf, part of the winning team, explained that the app’s goal is to make digital payments simple and accessible, promoting financial inclusion across various sectors in Morocco.
The second prize went to “C-pocket,” and third place to “DimaPay,” both of which proposed forward-thinking solutions in the realm of digital finance. In addition to these awards, the organizing committee also recognized four standout projects with “coup de cœur” prizes. These teams will receive a week of immersive experience and internship opportunities at CIH Bank, allowing them to further refine their projects within a professional setting.
For the organizers, the Bankathon has solidified its role as an essential annual event, not only stimulating student creativity but also sparking innovative financial solutions and advancing Morocco’s banking digitalization. The competition fosters collaboration between academic and professional spheres, giving young talents a platform to sharpen their skills, engage with market realities, and contribute to the vision of a digital, financially inclusive Morocco.
Beyond this year’s contest, the Bankathon’s broader impact lies in bridging the gap between academia and industry, enabling students to contribute directly to the nation’s economic transformation. With promising initiatives like these, Morocco is steadily advancing toward a future where digital financial solutions become the standard, paving the way for a seamless, cash-free economy.
