As discussions drew to a close in Casablanca, the Morocco-Gulf Forum on youth economic and social empowerment concluded with a call to expand funding mechanisms for youth-driven innovation, particularly in green, blue, and digital sectors.
The three-day event, hosted by Morocco’s Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication, in collaboration with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretariat General, gathered nearly 100 participants—including young leaders, experts, government officials, and entrepreneurs from Morocco and GCC nations.
Empowering youth as a catalyst for sustainable growth
Ahmed Aboukrim, Chair of the Forum’s Scientific Committee, highlighted the critical role of youth empowerment in addressing economic, social, and technological shifts while advancing sustainable development goals. He emphasized integrated approaches combining education, skills training, employability, entrepreneurship, innovation, and financing, stressing that investing in human capital is key to boosting national competitiveness.
Sessions underscored the need for policies that bridge gaps between education systems and labor market demands, ensuring young people are equipped to drive economic transformation.
Four high-impact sectors for youth-led development
Workshops identified four strategic sectors where youth innovation could have the greatest impact: green economy initiatives, artificial intelligence and digital transformation, renewable energy and green hydrogen, and blue economy solutions centered on water and marine resources.
Proposed solutions to unlock youth potential
Recommendations included establishing dedicated funds to finance youth-led projects in green, blue, and digital fields, expanding joint research and training programs, creating specialized incubation hubs, and adopting shared metrics to track progress in youth employment, innovation, and sustainability outcomes.
Participants noted that Morocco and GCC countries possess complementary strengths—resources, expertise, and investment capacity—ideal for fostering a regional model of cooperation rooted in knowledge-based economies and sustainable development, all centered on empowering young generations.
Gulf delegates praise Morocco’s leadership
Salma Khalifa Al Ghafli, Head of the UAE delegation, commended Morocco’s exceptional organization and hospitality, stressing the deep fraternal ties between Morocco and GCC nations. She described the Forum as a vital platform for exchanging best practices and building partnerships that invest in youth as the foundation of national progress.
Closing tribute to partners in progress
The closing ceremony honored heads of delegations from GCC countries and diplomatic representatives of participating nations, recognizing their contributions to the Forum’s success and their commitment to strengthening Morocco-GCC cooperation in youth development and economic advancement.
