Morocco, Spain Strengthen Scientific Ties with the Africa Canarias Challenge Research Program

Fez– The 3rd edition of the Africa Canarias Challenge brought together 20 researchers and professors from Morocco’s Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) in the Canary Islands.

This initiative, led by the General Director of Relations with Africa, marks a significant step forward in the growing scientific and technological collaboration between the Canary Islands and Morocco.

During their visit, the Moroccan delegation worked closely with researchers from the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC) and the University of La Laguna (ULL) to address critical challenges in water, energy, and health across Africa.

In a series of work sessions at ULL, 12 joint scientific projects were presented. These projects cover research on developing pharmaceuticals from Atlantic microalgae to advancing circular economy practices by converting organic waste into activated carbon for energy storage systems. Additional projects study creating AI tools for estimating children’s bone age, and recycling desalination brine for industrial applications, among others.

The delegation also explored the Canary Islands’ advanced scientific and technological capabilities through visits to key institutions such as the Institute of Astrophysics, the Institute of Tropical Diseases, and the Oceanic Platform. According to the organizers, these exchanges were focused on discussing innovative approaches to shared challenges.

According to the Spanish outlet Gobierno de canarias, this visit follows the October trip to Morocco by a Canary Islands delegation led by regional president Fernando Clavijo. The trip – the most significant of its kind in decades – demonstrated the government’s commitment to consolidating scientific partnerships with Morocco in areas of shared interest.

The Africa Canarias Challenge is the Canary Islands’ flagship program for scientific diplomacy.

By connecting regional talent with networks across Africa, the program helps to promote sustainable and inclusive development in this sector.

This year’s edition, implemented by the Canary Islands Startups Association, continues the program’s mission of fostering high-value innovation and collaboration, reinforcing the Canary Islands’ role as a hub for international research and cooperation.