In a significant advancement for Morocco’s technology and education sectors, the National Institute of Posts and Telecommunications (INPT) has partnered with the Al Mada Foundation to launch the nation’s first Master’s program in Data and Artificial Intelligence. The initiative stands out as the only program of its kind in the country to integrate a paid work-study model, directly addressing the growing demand for skilled tech talent.
A New Model for Tech Education
The two-year program, which commenced on September 22 with an inaugural class of 30 students, is designed for graduates with backgrounds in mathematics, computer science, or physics. Its unique structure combines a common core curriculum in the first year with specialized tracks in the second. The core innovation lies in its integration of classroom instruction with corporate immersion, allowing students to gain paid, real-world experience while completing their advanced degrees. This hands-on approach is a key component of Morocco’s national strategy to cultivate a workforce capable of leading its digital transformation.
Bridging Academia and Industry
The program is a collaborative effort designed to close the gap between academic theory and industry application. Corporate partners, including Attijariwafa bank, inwi, Managem, and Marjane Group, will host students throughout the program, providing invaluable mentorship and practical experience on live projects. Funded by the Al Mada Foundation and its partners, the curriculum is delivered by a mix of university researchers and seasoned business professionals, ensuring students develop both technical mastery and essential soft skills like leadership, communication, and digital ethics.
A Strategic Imperative for Morocco
Leaders behind the initiative have emphasized its critical role in the nation’s future. Hassan Ouriagli, President of Al Mada Foundation, stated, “The future of our economies, businesses, and societies depends on how we master and responsibly use data and AI. These technologies have become a strategic imperative, not an option.” He noted that the program aims to cultivate talent that can not only handle advanced technologies but also understand their ethical and social implications. Echoing this sentiment, Ahmed Tamtaoui, Interim Director of INPT, added that the partnership aligns with the institute’s mission to develop highly qualified professionals, offering “top-tier training that combines academic rigor with professional experience to prepare the talents Morocco needs for its future.”
About the INPT and Al Mada Foundation Partnership
The National Institute of Posts and Telecommunications (INPT) is a leading Moroccan engineering school and research institution specializing in the digital sector. The Al Mada Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Al Mada, a private pan-African investment fund. This partnership leverages INPT’s academic excellence and the Foundation’s industry connections to create a pioneering educational model aimed at building human capital for Morocco’s digital economy.
Source: MEA Tech Watch
