Official launch of the 17th edition of the Summer University for young Moroccans residing abroad

The 17th edition of the Summer University for young Moroccans living abroad opened on Monday in Tangier, at the initiative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Living Abroad—Department of Moroccans Living Abroad.

Organized as part of the summer support program for Moroccans living abroad (MRE) during Operation Marhaba 2026, this event—which will run through July 12—brings together 300 young Moroccan students from more than 26 countries of residence, aged 18 to 25, who are pursuing their studies at universities and prestigious higher education institutions. Women account for 59% of participants, while 88% of participants were born abroad.

Since its launch in 2009, this program has been one of the flagship initiatives aimed at the younger generations of the Moroccan diaspora, offering them the opportunity to strengthen their ties with their country of origin and discover the richness of its historical, cultural, and civilizational heritage, rooted in the values of dialogue and tolerance.

Speaking on this occasion, the Secretary General of the Department for Moroccans Living Abroad, Ismail Lamghari, noted that this year’s program is distinguished by strong participation from young people representing the new generation of Moroccan emigrants—notably third- and fourth-generation individuals in several countries, particularly in Europe—emphasizing that the program’s primary aim is to strengthen the bonds between these young people and their country of origin through a diverse range of activities combining elements of identity, economics, the arts, and tourism.

He also noted that the planned activities include conferences, workshops, and field trips led by Moroccan facilitators, allowing participants to explore the potential of the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region, as well as the Kingdom’s major infrastructure and development projects.

Mr. Lamghari further noted that this edition takes place against the backdrop of the remarkable performances of the national soccer team, several of whose players hail from the diaspora and serve as inspiring role models in terms of their attachment to the motherland and their contribution to its global influence.

For his part, the president of the Council of the Moroccan Community Abroad, Mr. Driss El Yazami, highlighted the strong engagement of young Moroccans living abroad, reflecting the profound changes taking place within the Moroccan diaspora. He noted that this participation attests to the emergence of new generations who are committed to their identity and eager to strengthen their ties with Morocco.

In this regard, he emphasized that this summer university illustrates the momentum of the Kingdom’s policy on migration and the strengthening of ties with its citizens abroad.

For his part, the Secretary-General of the Rabita Mohammadia of the Ulemas, Mr. Ahmed Abbadi, noted that this summer university provides a unique opportunity to strengthen young Moroccans living abroad’s attachment to their country through an approach that integrates scientific and exploratory dimensions.

Over nine days, participants will take part in a rich programme combining thematic workshops, panel discussions, and exchange sessions with speakers from academic, institutional, and cultural circles. The topics addressed will focus in particular on identity, cultural and religious dimensions, as well as on the economic opportunities offered by the Kingdom and the major transformation projects it is carrying forward.

The programme will also be enriched by educational outings and immersive visits designed to introduce participants to the heritage, economic, and socio-cultural potential of the Tangier region. These activities will enable young Moroccans Living Abroad to gain a concrete understanding of Morocco’s development dynamics and strengthen their awareness of the country’s future challenges and prospects.