Rabat – Mississippi State University and the International University of Rabat (UIR) signed a series of academic cooperation agreements on Friday to expand and strengthen their partnership in new strategic areas.
UIR President Nour Eddine Mouadib and Mississippi State University’s President, Mark Keenum, signed the agreement in the presence of Morocco’s Ambassador to the United States, Youssef Amrani.
These agreements aim to broaden collaboration between the two universities, especially in agriculture, hospitality and tourism, architecture, applied research, and joint supervision of doctoral theses. The partnership also supports student mobility, dual degrees, and joint research programs.
During his visit to Mississippi State University, Ambassador Amrani held an interactive meeting with about 50 Moroccan students and graduates pursuing master’s and doctoral studies through the partnership that has been in place since 2015.
The Ambassador said that the collaboration reflects Morocco’s commitment to investing in human capital, highlighting that knowledge, mobility, and academic excellence are key drivers of the country’s competitiveness and influence.
He added that the partnership has already enabled more than 300 Moroccan engineers to graduate in strategic fields such as aerospace, automotive, and information technology, describing it as “a clear vision, a responsible choice, and a steady ambition.”
The ambassador also encouraged Moroccan students to maintain strong and dynamic ties with their home country and contribute actively to initiatives that enhance Morocco’s image as a forward-looking and credible nation.
Meanwhile, Mouadib expressed pride in the achievements of Moroccan students trained through the dual-degree program, stressing their ability to succeed in leading scientific and technological environments in the United States. He also confirmed the university’s full support to help graduates integrate professionally and contribute to Morocco’s development.