This contingent of foreign students, particularly from African countries, reflects Moroccan universities' openness, and Fez in particular, to the cultures of these countries, according to speakers at the opening on Friday of the first “African Cultural Day” organized by the Higher School of Technology (EST).
In this respect, Mustafa Hadrami, vice-president of Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah University, in charge of scientific research and cooperation, stressed that the University of Fez encourages holding of such cultural events and initiatives open to African culture, noting that foreign students are considered ambassadors of the Moroccan university at the end of their studies in Morocco and upon their return to their countries of origin.
For his part, EST Director Mohamed Karim stated that this event serves as a milestone in the school's cultural and social life, as it reflects a commitment to values of openness, diversity and sharing, adding that it is also an opportunity to enhance and bolster ties between students from Morocco and those from sub-Saharan African countries, through cultural exchanges.
He noted that EST currently hosts 68 students from 14 sister African countries, which testifies to the attractiveness of this school and the depth of relations between Morocco and its neighbors on the African continent.
The “African Culture Day” program includes several artistic and musical components, aimed in particular at showcasing traditional Moroccan costumes and those of African countries.