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Rabat – Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane and the Deloitte Morocco Cyber Center signed this week a cooperation agreement to boost synergies between academia and the cybersecurity industry.
The agreement is initially set for three years, but is renewable, a joint statement said, noting that the two parties signed the cooperation deal during this year’s GITEX Africa, which took place from April 14-16 in Marrakech.
Under the agreement, the center will allow exporters to contribute to the design and delivery of courses, mentorship, and knowledge sharing.
The cooperation agreement aims to enhance Al Akhawayn University’s cybersecurity specialization track as well as the Master’s program.
The university students and graduates will also benefit from access to internships and job opportunities within the Deloitte Cyber Center, while the two partners plan to create a joint certification to boost student employability.
Both partners also aim to co-organize events such as cybersecurity days to boost ties between academia and industry players, while promoting shared cybersecurity.
Amine Bensaid, president of Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane, expressed satisfaction with the new agreement, stressing his school’s commitment to continue pursuing academic excellence and developing students.
“Cybersecurity, at the heart of digital transformation, is now a strategic issue for higher education,” he said, noting that the partnership with the Deloitte Morocco Cyber Center reflects Al Akhawayn’s desire to strengthen its connection with the professional ecosystem.
Managing partner for Cyber at Deloitte France and Francophone Africa, Imade ElBaraka, said it is imperative to have a strong pipeline of Moroccan and African talent.
Elbaraka, who is also the General Director of Deloitte MCC, stressed that it’s important to actively invest in skills development and mentoring young engineers.
“We are proud to bring this initiative to life alongside a leading institution like Al Akhawayn,” he concluded.
