Morocco Partners with UNDP to Establish Second International AI Center
Rabat, The Gulf Observer: Morocco is collaborating with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) to establish a second international artificial intelligence (AI) center, according to Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, Minister Delegate for Digital Transition and Administrative Reform.
Speaking at a meeting organized by the Authenticity and Modernity Party in Rabat-Salé-Kénitra, Seghrouchni stated that while the UN has yet to officially announce the project, discussions are underway. Morocco already hosts an international AI center affiliated with Mohammed VI Polytechnic University in partnership with UNESCO.
The minister highlighted the significant financial investments required for AI development, citing examples such as the U.S. allocating $500 billion, Europe $200 billion, and the UAE investing between $30 billion and $50 billion. To strengthen its AI capabilities, Morocco is working closely with international organizations like UNESCO and countries such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
Seghrouchni emphasized the distinction between digitalization and AI, noting AI’s potential to revolutionize various sectors, including recruitment, where it could analyze candidates’ thought patterns to assess their suitability.
As part of Morocco’s 2030 digital strategy, the country plans to establish 12 centers focused on scientific research, innovation, and public-private partnerships to drive AI projects. However, funding remains a major challenge.
During the meeting, the minister mentioned that the previous initiative, AL MASTER JUNIOR, was initially rejected due to high costs but is now being reconsidered under the new education minister. She acknowledged difficulties in implementing AI programs in rural areas due to a shortage of trained personnel but noted ongoing collaboration with the OCP Group to address this issue.
To regulate AI development, Seghrouchni announced the formation of a committee comprising digital experts and lawmakers to draft AI-related legislation.
On cybersecurity, she assured that Morocco’s General Directorate for Information Systems Security enforces strict protocols to safeguard citizens’ data from cyber threats. Additionally, she revealed an agreement with OCP to expand YouCode coding schools nationwide, with a new branch set to open in Fez by 2027.
This initiative underscores Morocco’s commitment to advancing AI and digital transformation, reinforcing its position as a regional hub for technological innovation.
