The Ministry of Higher Education Launches the National Program for Developmental Research and Innovation
Azeddine Maïdaoui, Minister of Higher Education, Scientific Research, and Innovation, announced the launch of the National Program for Developmental Research and Innovation for 2025-2028, which has been allocated an unprecedented budget of one billion dirhams. This initiative aims to bring about a qualitative leap in Morocco’s scientific research system and enhance innovation in strategic fields with direct developmental impact.
During a question-and-answer session in the House of Representatives, the minister explained that this program is part of the implementation of the strategic vision for 2015-2030 and the execution of the provisions of Framework Law 51.17, concerning the education, training, and scientific research system, as well as within the scope of the governmental program for the period 2021-2026.
One of the most significant updates of this program is the allocation of 200 million dirhams to engage Moroccan talents residing abroad. This unprecedented move aims to encourage Moroccan brains to contribute to the development of national scientific research, in line with royal directives calling for the mobilization of national competencies worldwide. This approach aims to attract professionals and motivate them to return and engage in higher education institutions and research centers, thereby enhancing the transfer of expertise and knowledge and nurturing the dynamics of innovation in Morocco.
The program will be executed in strategic partnership with the OCP Group, Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, and the National Center for Scientific and Technical Research. It focuses on financing projects with developmental dimensions in priority sectors such as water, health, food security, renewable energies, phosphates, and the humanities and social sciences.
To widely activate the program, the ministry confirmed the opening of participation to various components of the higher education system, including public and private universities and institutions, aiming to enhance excellence and innovation in national scientific research by mobilizing resources, supporting competencies, and establishing sustainable financing and scientific cooperation mechanisms.
