Morocco-gulf forum urges stronger funding for youth-led innovation

The three-day Morocco-Gulf Youth Forum, focused on economic and social empowerment, concluded in Casablanca with a strong call for enhanced financial mechanisms to support youth-driven innovation, particularly in green, blue, and digital sectors.

Convened by Morocco’s Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretariat, the event brought together over 100 young leaders, experts, institutional officials, and entrepreneurs from Morocco and GCC member states.

a strategic push for sustainable development

Ahmed Aboukrim, Chair of the Forum’s Scientific Committee, highlighted how the sessions underscored the pivotal role of youth empowerment in addressing economic, social, and technological shifts while advancing sustainable development goals. He emphasized that integrated strategies—combining education, training, employability, entrepreneurship, innovation, and funding—are essential to strengthening national competitiveness through human capital investment.

four key sectors for youth economic growth

The workshops identified four high-potential sectors as new engines for youth economic empowerment: green economy, artificial intelligence and digital transformation, renewable energy and green hydrogen, as well as blue economy and water resources.

dedicated funds and specialized incubators recommended

Key recommendations included establishing dedicated funds for youth projects in green, blue, and digital fields, expanding joint research and training programs, developing specialized incubators, and adopting shared metrics to assess youth employment, innovation, and sustainability outcomes. Participants stressed that Morocco and GCC nations possess complementary strengths—resources, expertise, and investment capacity—creating ideal conditions for a regional model of cooperation rooted in innovation, knowledge-based economies, and sustainable growth.

gulf partners praise moroccan hospitality

Salma Khalifa Al Ghafli, head of the United Arab Emirates delegation, praised Morocco’s seamless organization and warm hospitality, emphasizing the deep fraternal ties between Morocco and GCC countries. She described the forum as a vital platform for sharing best practices and fostering partnerships to empower youth economically and socially, calling investment in young people the foundation of a nation’s future.

The closing ceremony honored heads of delegations and diplomatic representatives from GCC and participating countries, recognizing their vital role in ensuring the forum’s success and advancing Morocco-GCC cooperation in youth and development.