Event : 24 – 26 June, 2026
Ibn Tofaïl University took part in the eighth edition of the International Automotive Industrial Competitiveness Exhibition (SCIA 2026), held from 24 to 26 June 2026 in the Kenitra Free Zone, under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, May God Assist Him. The event brought together major stakeholders from the national and international automotive industry, including industrial companies, equipment manufacturers, technical centres, investors, experts, and sector professionals.
The official opening ceremony was attended by the President of Ibn Tofaïl University, reflecting the University’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with the socio-economic environment and actively contributing to Morocco’s industrial development. The Career Development Center team at Ibn Tofaïl University also participated in this important event, contributing to the University’s efforts to strengthen links between students, academic institutions, and the professional world. The exhibition provided a valuable platform for dialogue and networking through scientific and professional conferences, B2B meetings, technological exhibitions, and sectoral round tables.
The participation of Ibn Tofaïl University in this major industrial event highlights the increasingly important role of higher education and research institutions in supporting industrial competitiveness and innovation. As Morocco continues to strengthen its position within the global automotive industry, universities have a key role to play in anticipating emerging skills requirements, supporting applied research, and preparing highly qualified graduates capable of responding to the evolving needs of the sector.
Particular attention was given to the opportunities created by artificial intelligence and digital technologies within industrial production chains. The integration of AI into manufacturing processes is transforming the automotive sector by fostering greater efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness. In this context, closer cooperation between universities, research institutions, and industry is essential to develop the scientific expertise and digital competencies required to accompany this transformation.
The event also highlighted the growing importance of sustainable mobility and electric and clean vehicles. These developments are creating new research priorities and professional opportunities while requiring new generations of engineers, researchers, and specialists with expertise in advanced technologies, energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and intelligent mobility.
Beyond its participation in the exhibition, Ibn Tofaïl University’s presence underscores the importance of university–industry partnerships in bridging academic knowledge and professional practice. Such cooperation can facilitate knowledge transfer, encourage joint research and innovation, strengthen students’ employability, and support the development of solutions responding to the needs of strategic economic sectors.
Through its participation in SCIA 2026, Ibn Tofaïl University reaffirms its commitment to accompanying Morocco’s industrial transformation and to contributing to the development of a competitive, innovative, and sustainable automotive ecosystem. The event further illustrates the University’s role as a bridge between education, research, innovation, and the socio-economic world, while reinforcing its contribution to the country’s technological and industrial ambitions.
The University’s participation in SCIA 2026 also contributes to several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The event supports Quality Education by strengthening connections between higher education and the professional world and by promoting the development of skills aligned with emerging industrial needs. It also contributes to Decent Work and Economic Growth through its emphasis on employability, industrial competitiveness, and the development of qualified human capital. Furthermore, the focus on artificial intelligence, digital transformation, electric vehicles, and clean mobility is closely aligned with Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, while the emphasis on sustainable and cleaner mobility contributes to Sustainable Cities and Communities and Climate Action. The initiative also contributes to Partnerships for the Goals by strengthening collaboration between the university, industry stakeholders, investors, experts, and other national and international partners, thereby fostering knowledge exchange and collective action for sustainable development. By strengthening dialogue between academia and industry, Ibn Tofaïl University continues to support innovation and sustainable development while contributing to Morocco’s transition towards a more technologically advanced and environmentally responsible industrial economy.