In a pivotal moment for its economy, Morocco is presented with the unique chance to ready its workforce for the age of artificial intelligence (AI). Contrary to fears of widespread job losses among the youth, discussions at Al Akhawayn University’s recent Intelligence Forum highlighted that AI is not eliminating jobs but rather transforming the nature of work itself. This forum, which took place on July 14 at the Mohammed VI Tower in Rabat, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders including Higher Education Minister Azzedine El Midaoui, CGEM President Mehdi Tazi, and various business leaders, academics, and public officials, all united in their goal to leverage AI as a catalyst for employment and economic development rather than a threat to job security.
The forum's primary focus was on fostering collaboration between educational institutions and the business sector to equip graduates with the necessary skills to thrive in an AI-influenced job market. Business leaders, including Mehdi Tazi, emphasized that, as of now, AI has not supplanted human workers in Morocco. Tazi pointed out that over 90% of jobs remain unaffected by AI, underscoring the current reality that, instead of replacing jobs, AI is reshaping the tasks assigned to workers, particularly those entering the workforce. Wafaa Asri, Secretary General of the Department of Vocational Training, reinforced this perspective by referencing international research from the OECD and the World Economic Forum, which indicates that AI is primarily altering job responsibilities rather than completely eliminating positions.
Despite this relatively stable employment landscape, the urgency for adaptation is palpable. Mohamed Horani, Founder and CEO of HPS, characterized the integration of AI into business processes as an “irreversible” trend, compelling companies to incorporate AI technologies to maintain their competitive edge. Additionally, recruitment practices are evolving, with hiring frameworks now categorizing candidates based on their familiarity with AI—ranging from “AI Aware” to “AI Native.” This shift highlights the growing importance of critical thinking and the ability to engage with AI technologies as vital skills for prospective employees.
Participants at the forum unanimously agreed that Morocco is in a favorable position, as the current stage of AI integration offers a crucial window for the nation to prepare its workforce ahead of more significant technological disruptions. However, experts cautioned that this window of opportunity could close rapidly as businesses accelerate their adoption of AI solutions to enhance their operational efficiencies. Statistical insights shared during the forum revealed a troubling trend; despite high unemployment rates among recent graduates in the U.S., a significant number of companies struggle to find candidates equipped with AI-related skills. In Morocco, where job seekers often take an average of 33 months to secure their first position, policymakers have a pressing responsibility to influence a more favorable employment landscape.
“The two scenarios can coexist. Everything depends on the choices we make today,” Asri articulated, emphasizing the importance of strategic decision-making. Amine Bensaid, President of Al Akhawayn University, noted the institution's proactive approach to the challenges posed by AI, stating that they were not willing to passively observe the unfolding impact of this technology. “It is a good moment, and it is certainly not too late,” he asserted, calling for a collaborative effort among employers, educational institutions, and government entities.
The forum concluded with a consensus that, rather than displacing human workers, AI should be viewed as a tool that enhances human capabilities. Minister Azzedine El Midaoui urged universities to become “creators of wealth,” while Tazi posited that AI should empower professionals to become “a better version of ourselves.” Former Minister Awatef Hayar highlighted AI’s potential to foster inclusion by enabling rural artisans to access international markets in their native languages. Furthermore, Jalal Charaf, Director General of École Centrale Casablanca, noted that universities are increasingly teaching graduates to manage AI agents, which significantly amplifies their productivity.
The forum identified four critical priorities for enhancing Morocco’s workforce readiness in the age of AI. The first priority emphasizes the development of essential skills such as critical thinking, adaptability, interpersonal intelligence, and proficiency with AI tools across various academic fields. El Midaoui pointed out that Morocco offers over 80 engineering and master’s programs specializing in artificial intelligence. The second priority involves strengthening the role of companies in education through co-designed curricula, work-study programs, and corporate academies, as employers increasingly value the questions students ask just as much as the answers they provide. The third priority focuses on establishing a national strategy around data—a vital resource for AI—while ensuring data sovereignty and avoiding dependency on a single technology provider. Finally, the fourth priority stresses the importance of foundational learning, fostering critical thinking about digital platforms, and utilizing AI-assisted educational tools to promote equitable access to quality education.
Al Akhawayn University has taken significant steps to incorporate AI into its curriculum, mandating its use across all disciplines after a comprehensive three-year faculty development program. The university has reported impressive outcomes, with 88% of its graduates securing job offers before graduation. Their work-study programs have proven particularly effective, generating three to four times more employment opportunities compared to traditional academic pathways. Looking ahead, the university plans to publish a summary report and recommendations based on the forum discussions, with the Intelligence Forum set to become a recurring event aimed at steering Morocco towards a future where AI plays a constructive role in economic growth and employment sustainability.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
