The promotion of cooperation in scientific research was the focus of discussions on Tuesday in Rabat between the president of Mohammed V University of Rabat (UM5R) and a delegation from the Association of African Universities (AUA).
This meeting, which aims to strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Moroccan and African universities, saw both parties review ways to enhance exchanges in higher education, innovation, and scientific research.
The objective is to fully engage in exchange programs and research and development initiatives, thereby contributing to elevating the standards of higher education and scientific research across the African continent. In a statement to the press, AUA President Bakri Osman Saeed expressed his satisfaction with the meeting, seeing it as an opportunity to discuss improving higher education in African countries.
The goal, he emphasized, is to strengthen relationships with Moroccan universities, commending the progress in research and innovation at these institutions. Interim President of UM5R, Farid El Bacha, highlighted that the AUA, comprising over 300 prestigious African universities, was founded in Morocco in the 1960s. He noted that the AUA, through its activities, supports the strategic priorities of the African Union in higher education, scientific research, and innovation.
This meeting marks the beginning of a new era of mutual support, El Bacha asserted, stating, “This is an Africa that takes its destiny into its own hands, an Africa capable of achieving anything, and our universities have a major role to play in this.”
The meeting was attended by AUA Secretary General Olusola Oyewole, Sylvia Mkandawire, the project leader of the Centers of Excellence for Higher Education in Africa (ACE Impact), and the presidents of institutions under Mohammed V University.
