Financing mechanisms tailored to youth-led initiatives
The Casablanca-hosted Morocco-Gulf Forum on youth economic and social empowerment concluded this week with a strong call for enhanced financial support mechanisms to empower young innovators, particularly in green, blue and digital sectors.
The three-day event, organized by the Moroccan Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication in collaboration with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretariat General, brought together over a hundred young entrepreneurs, experts, institutional leaders and ecosystem stakeholders from Morocco and GCC countries.
Youth empowerment as a driver of sustainable development
Ahmed Aboukrim, Chair of the Forum’s Scientific Committee, highlighted in his closing remarks that youth economic and social empowerment has emerged as a critical lever for addressing economic, social and technological shifts while advancing sustainable development goals. Discussions emphasized integrated strategies combining education, skills development, employability, entrepreneurship, innovation and financing, with a focus on strengthening human capital to boost national competitiveness.
Four priority sectors identified for youth innovation
Workshops at the Forum delved into four key sectors identified as new engines for youth economic empowerment: green economy, artificial intelligence and digital transformation, renewable energy and green hydrogen, and blue economy and water resources.
Dedicated funds and specialized incubators recommended
Recommendations from the sessions included establishing dedicated funds to finance youth-led innovations in green, blue and digital sectors, expanding joint research and training programs, developing specialized incubators, and adopting shared indicators to track impact on youth employment, innovation and sustainability.
Participants underscored how Morocco’s complementarity with GCC countries in resources, expertise and investment capacity creates ideal conditions for a regional cooperation model rooted in innovation, knowledge-based economies and sustainable growth—all aimed at empowering young people economically and socially.
UAE delegation commends Moroccan hospitality
Salma Khalifa Al Ghafli, head of the United Arab Emirates delegation, praised the Forum’s organization and Morocco’s warm reception, emphasizing the deep fraternal ties binding Morocco and GCC nations. She described the event as a vital platform for sharing best practices and building partnerships to empower youth, calling investment in young people the true investment in a nation’s future.
Tribute to participating delegations
The closing ceremony honored heads of delegations from GCC countries and diplomatic representatives of participating nations in recognition of their contributions to the Forum’s success and their commitment to strengthening Morocco–GCC cooperation in youth and development.
