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Rabat – Morocco’s Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) inaugurated its first international branch in Paris last Wednesday. The expansion marks a significant stride in the school’s commitment to innovation and research.
Fahd Benkirane, the managing director of UM6P France, gave his remarks at the event. According to the local student news outlet, AuFutur, he expressed honor in fostering cooperation between Morocco and France in academics, research, and entrepreneurship.
Benkirane envisions UM6P France as a catalyst for “broadening perspectives on both sides of the Mediterranean through enhanced academic and economic partnerships.”
UM6P was established in 2017, with its main campus in the city of Benguerir, near Marrakech. The university focuses on research in crucial areas such as food security, AI, health, humanities, economics, and social sciences.
In addition to Benguerir, UM6P has campuses north in Rabat and south in Laayoune, boasting a diverse student body of more than 5,000 from over 20 countries.
UM6P Paris is the institution’s first international and European branch, and its global influence extends through partnerships with prestigious global institutions, including Polytechnique Paris, HEC Paris, and others.
In addition, the university has been committed to uplifting African leaders, as well as addressing global challenges like climate change, soil pollution, and digital technology.
Read also: UM6P Gears up for 1st International Campus of Excellence in Africa
UM6P France is set to become the first Euro-African hub for green, clean, and medical technology startups, with a one-year incubation program, AuFutur added.
The startup support program will aim to provide entrepreneurs from both continents with excellent education and personalized support.
Commenting on the inauguration of the new Paris branch, UM6P President Hicham El Habti foresees a continued international expansion beyond the French capital.
“The creation of UM6P France is a first step in a gradual international development, to create bridges between Africa and the world, relying notably on international communities attached to Morocco,” he said, AuFutur quoted.
El Habti envisions these “global citizens” as key supporters and ambassadors who would help showcase the excellence of Africa and position UM6P as a valuable knowledge hub serving diverse communities.
The Paris Branch inauguration happened on January 24, coinciding with this year’s International Day of Education, themed “Learning for Last Peace.”
Commemorating the International Day, UM6P wrote on social media, “Through education, we seek to build bridges of understanding and cooperation, fostering lasting peace across the world.”
