Mohammed I University in Oujda hosts the Social Solidarity Economy and Artificial Intelligence Forum

Economy of the East

On November 13 and 14, Mohammed I University in Oujda will host the second edition of the International Forum on Social and Solidarity Economy, with a special focus on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in promoting this sector. The forum is titled “Social Economy and Solidarity, Decent Work for All, Artificial Intelligence and Health: New Prospects for Integrated Territorial Development”.

The event brings together experts, decision-makers, young entrepreneurs and local actors to discuss development models in the short and medium term. About fifty Moroccan and international experts, including former ministers, researchers, officials of social organizations, and specialists in social and solidarity economy and sustainable territorial development, will participate in the event.

Artificial Intelligence as a lever for the social economy

AI is emerging as a tool to expand the impact of the social and solidarity economy, especially in the areas of health, prevention and access to health services. The event explores the synergy between AI, the social economy and public health, explains Adel Mellab, from the scientific committee of the forum.

Topics of discussion include how AI can support the governance of collaborative health systems, digital tools that can improve access to healthcare in rural or marginalized areas, and reconciling technological innovation with social justice in health policies.

The state of the sector in the East

The social and solidarity economy is a reality for thousands of people in the Eastern Province. The region is home to more than 8,700 cooperatives, of which 62% are in the agricultural sector, followed by 17% in the traditional industry. The region is also home to more than 850 women's cooperatives and more than 300 youth cooperatives.

The cooperative sector in the region is characterized by its prevalence in the fields of agriculture, crafts, retail, services, labor, as well as aromatic and medicinal plants, according to the regional delegation of the Cooperation Development Office. The cooperatives are mainly distributed in the provinces of Oujda Angad, Fajij, Jarada, Berkane and Tawerert.

The creation of cooperatives is attracting new sectors such as waste recycling, renewable energies, art, culture, e-commerce, paper and communication, reflecting the diversity of economic opportunities in the region.