A Decade of Excellence at ESSEC in Morocco
In 2016, ESSEC made a strategic decision to establish its African campus in Rabat, Morocco, marking a significant step towards enhancing its presence on the African continent. Now, ten years later, the institution proudly celebrates a decade of growth and development that has positively impacted over 3,000 students who have walked through its doors. Located at Plage des Nations in Sidi Bouknadel, the campus covers an impressive area of 6,000 square meters, initially focused on recruiting local talent from Morocco before expanding its reach to encompass students from across Africa.
This initiative aligns with ESSEC's commitment to strengthen its footprint in strategic regions while offering educational programs tailored to the unique economic realities of the continent. Vincenzo Vinzi, the General Director of ESSEC, articulates this vision, stating that the decision to launch in Africa was driven by a strong conviction to position the institution close to areas of growth and significant transformations that are shaping the future.
Diverse Programs and International Orientation
Over the years, ESSEC Africa has successfully developed a variety of academic programs designed to meet the diverse needs of students and businesses alike. Among the offerings are the Global BBA, International Program in Business Administration (IPBA), Financial Engineering and Data Analysis (FEDA), and International Business and Supply Chain Management (IBSCM). In addition to these core programs, the campus also provides continuous education opportunities through Executive Education, Summer Schools, and mobility programs that facilitate exchanges between ESSEC's different campuses.
Emphasizing a practical and entrepreneurial approach, the campus houses the INLAB Africa incubator, which aims to bridge the gap between education and the professional world. Furthermore, initiatives like the Youth Bootcamp and international programs that welcome students from around the globe contribute to this openness and inclusivity. ESSEC's commitment to innovation is also evident in its partnerships, with nearly 100 academic and corporate partners, including its membership in the Association of African Business Schools (AABS), which connects management education institutions across Africa.
Research activities are on the rise as well, highlighted by the launch of the 'Business and Industry in Africa' chair in collaboration with various industrial stakeholders, including Africa Global Logistics, ARISE IIP, IBL Group, and Vivo Energy. This initiative aims to enhance the links between academic research, pedagogical innovation, and the economic and industrial challenges facing the continent.
The tenth anniversary of ESSEC Africa is part of a broader international strategy that sees the institution with four campuses across three continents—Cergy and Paris-La Défense in France, Singapore in Asia, and Rabat in Africa. Additionally, ESSEC has established several international hubs in key cities such as London, New York, and Mumbai, which is set to launch in February 2026. With nearly 250 academic partnerships, including 39 dual degree programs, ESSEC fosters international exchanges and academic pathways for its students.
Looking ahead, the institution aims to further develop its African campus, reinforcing its role in education, research, and managerial innovation. Hugues Levecq, Deputy Dean of ESSEC Africa, emphasizes the campus's vision, stating, "Our Rabat campus should serve as a gateway to Africa for the global ESSEC network and an open window to the world for African talents." This commitment to growth and excellence underscores ESSEC's enduring dedication to its mission in Morocco and beyond.
As reported by business-cool.com.
