Fes Hosts International Academic Diplomacy Event

The Faculty of Arts and Humanities at the Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University in Fes is gearing up to host an international academic day entitled "Academic Diplomacy: Marburg – Fes: Historical and Academic Bridges Towards Sustainable Partnership." This significant event is scheduled for Friday, May 22, 2026. It marks a collaborative effort between the faculty and the Middle Eastern Studies Institute at the University of Marburg in Germany, along with the Social, Cultural, and Philosophical Studies Laboratory and the Hassan II Foundation for Moroccans Living Abroad, all coordinated by the Moroccan-German Institute for Studies and Research.

This gathering is part of a rising momentum in the cultural and academic relations between Rabat and Berlin, aiming to craft a sophisticated model of parallel diplomacy grounded in intellectual dialogue and the establishment of stable scientific partnerships between the universities and research institutions of both nations. The event will serve as an opportunity to reflect on the historical symbolism that links Fes and Marburg as two prominent knowledge hubs; Fes is home to the historic Al Quaraouiyine University, while Marburg hosts one of Germany's oldest universities, founded in 1527.

Key Themes and Discussions

According to the press release, the scientific program will feature a distinguished lineup of Moroccan and German professors, researchers, and experts who will engage in discussions across several strategic themes, including:

  • The roles of universities in fostering international dialogue through academic diplomacy.
  • Prospects for research exchange and student partnerships and their impact on development.
  • Mechanisms for joint supervision of scientific theses (Cotutelle).

In conjunction with the intellectual activities, the German academic delegation will undertake field visits from May 21 to 24 to explore the historical, cultural, and educational landmarks in Morocco's scientific capital. These excursions aim to enhance human connections and pave the way for future institutional cooperation, ultimately leading to a twinning project between Fes and Marburg.

As reported by ar.le360.ma.