In his recent speech to mark the start of the new legislative year, King Mohammed VI of Morocco highlighted the importance of developing artificial intelligence (AI) and digital economy strategies to drive the country's economic transformation and enhance its position as an emerging economic power. The King emphasized the need to link these initiatives to the creation of job opportunities, investment, and innovation, while prioritizing the needs of young people.
The King's speech has sparked debate on the ability of the government to translate these directives into tangible results, particularly in terms of training Moroccan competencies, creating new job opportunities, and adapting to the changes imposed by technology on the labor market. This challenge falls on the shoulders of the newly appointed Head of Government, Fatima Zahra El Mansouri, and her team, who are expected to prioritize these issues.
According to Habib Estati Zainidine, a professor of constitutional law and political science at the University of Cadi Ayyad, the King's speech does not address AI and digital economy as technical topics, but rather as part of a new generation of major strategies aimed at strengthening Morocco's economic power. Estati emphasized the importance of linking innovation to the role of the private sector and job creation.
Estati added that the government's task is not only to prepare an AI strategy but to build a comprehensive economic system around this field. This includes training competencies, redirecting education and training towards digital professions, supporting research and innovation, and providing digital infrastructure and data.
The professor also stressed that the challenge of employment remains at the heart of the issue, noting that AI can create new opportunities but also risks replacing existing jobs. He emphasized that the success of this initiative should not be measured by the number of strategies and platforms announced, but by the number of jobs, companies, and competencies generated.
The government faces the challenge of transitioning from announcing major orientations to implementing clear and measurable programs that link investment in technology to training, employment, and support for entrepreneurship and innovation. This will enable AI and digital economy to become drivers of economic development and job creation.
The King's emphasis on AI and digital economy has sparked optimism among experts, who see this as an opportunity for Morocco to leapfrog and become a major player in the digital economy. However, the government's ability to deliver on these promises remains to be seen.
Key points
- The Moroccan government must prioritize the development of AI and digital economy strategies to create jobs and stimulate economic growth.
- The government faces the challenge of transitioning from announcing major orientations to implementing clear and measurable programs.
- The success of AI and digital economy initiatives will depend on the government's ability to link investment in technology to training, employment, and support for entrepreneurship and innovation.
