Transforming PhD Research Support in Morocco
On September 16, 2026, PhiDoc, a pioneering EdTech startup based in Morocco, is set to unveil a groundbreaking digital platform designed specifically for doctoral and early-career researchers. This innovative platform aims to centralize access to crucial resources such as funding opportunities, academic networks, mentorship, and comprehensive research support, all in a single, user-friendly location. Initially, the platform will cater to researchers in Morocco, with plans for expansion across the African continent and the MENA region within its first year of operation.
The initiative addresses a critical information gap that has been identified as a significant factor contributing to the high dropout rates among doctoral candidates. According to various studies, including one conducted by the former Ministry of Higher Education, the abandonment rate for doctoral theses in Morocco can reach an alarming 90%. PhiDoc's founders recognize that several structural challenges, such as unfunded theses, an overwhelming number of candidates managed by supervisors, limited access to international databases, and prolonged periods of isolation, hinder the progress of doctoral researchers. Additionally, the platform seeks to alleviate the difficulties associated with obtaining timely information about grants, funding, and conference opportunities, which often circulate unevenly through supervisors and informal channels like mailing lists and WhatsApp groups.
Supporting Research through Community and Collaboration
Oussama Elasri, the founder of PhiDoc, emphasizes that the issue is not the quality of research produced by Moroccan scholars but rather the infrastructure supporting that research. This realization struck him when he discovered an Erasmus+ funding opportunity just one day after its deadline in 2025. The new platform will enable researchers to monitor their thesis progress, access funding and conference opportunities tailored to their specific discipline and career stage, and connect with Moroccan researchers both locally and abroad for potential collaboration. Furthermore, it will provide guidance on research methodology and writing, allowing researchers conducting both quantitative and qualitative surveys to find participants within the platform's engaged community.
The platform also aims to connect doctoral researchers with professors, particularly those from Morocco's scientific diaspora, fostering mentorship relationships. PhiDoc allows researchers to request mentorship matches, with all sessions tracked within the platform to ensure accountability and progress. Available in both French and English, the PhiDoc platform can be accessed via phidoc.org on iOS and Android devices, making it an invaluable resource for doctoral researchers, early-career researchers, and professors alike. Additionally, the platform offers institutional access for doctoral schools, research laboratories, and partner universities, further enhancing its reach and impact.
As reported by en.hespress.com.
