• Morocco plans to invest MAD 1 billion to support researchers from 2025 to 2028 under a new national program.
• The PNARDI initiative, co-funded by the government and OCP, aims to boost research in key scientific and strategic sectors.
• The program features three tracks supporting young researchers, priority innovation themes, and stronger links between science and the economy.

Morrocco

What happened? The Moroccan government plans to provide funding worth MAD 1 billion to support Moroccan researchers between 2025 and 2028. This is under an agreement between the Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Innovation and the Office Chérifien des Phosphates (OCP) group.

PNARDI

What is the program? The agreement includes the launch of the “National Program to Attract and Retain Researchers for Development and Innovation (PNARDI).” This program aims to strengthen scientific excellence across sectors. These include water, phosphate extraction and processing, health, food security, renewable energy and the humanities and social sciences.

The first edition of the program is structured into three sub-programs:

• Ibn Battouta: R&D Young Researchers Programs which aims to support the emergence of a new generation of scientists.
• Ibn Albanna: R&D Priority Thematic Program which focuses on strategic areas with high innovation potential. 
• Nefazaouia: Technology Transfer Program which aims to strengthen the link between research and economic needs. This through fostering wealth creation from scientific advancements.

This initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen scientific research and innovation in Morocco, supported by strategic partners.

What is the budget? The budget for the program was raised from MAD 800 million to 1 billion, with 20% specifically allocated for Moroccan talent abroad. Additionally, the total budget will be divided equally between the Ministry of Higher Education and the OCP Group.