Essaouira: 3rd International Summit on Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security. Credits: MAP
The challenges of artificial intelligence (AI) in the service of cyber security were at the center of discussions during the 3rd International Summit on Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security (AiSec International Summit 2024), whose proceedings opened on Saturday in Essaouira, in the presence of an audience of eminent international experts, researchers and professionals in the field.
Launched by the National School of Applied Sciences (ENSA) of Marrakesh, in partnership with the École Supérieure de Technologie (EST) of Essaouira, this three-day international conclave aims to deepen the understanding of the threats that burden computer security and promote exchange between Moroccan universities, companies, providers decisions and researchers.
This scientific meeting marked by the presence of the king’s advisor and founding president of the Essaouira-Mogador Association, André Azoulay, the president of the Essaouira Municipal Council, Tarik Ottmani, the president of Cadi Ayyad University (UCA) in Marrakesh, Belaïd Bougadir, together with other personalities from different spheres, also intends to create a space suitable for cooperation and innovation in the field of cyber security, thus promoting the development of advanced technological solutions to combat growing digital threats.
In his opening speech, Azoulay welcomed Morocco’s significant progress in the field of cyber security, highlighting the Kingdom’s continued commitment to strengthening its capabilities in this strategic area.
“We are witnessing a global digital transition that is taking shape, and Morocco, with its skills and determination, is already playing a leading role in many sectors of new technologies, both on the African continent and on the international scene,” he pointed out, stressing that it is important to take a serious and professional approach to the challenges brought by the digital revolution.
“I firmly believe that the regulation and oversight of these technologies is imperative to maintaining our social balance, guaranteeing our security and protecting our sovereignty,” assured Azoulay.
Recalling that the city of Essaouira will host a series of renowned international conferences during this week, as well as other major events, Azoulay did not fail to highlight Cité des Alizés’ commitment to promoting scientific research and innovation.
For his part, Bougadir highlighted UCA’s commitment to position itself as a leader in the field of artificial intelligence, both through training and research, in order to train future leaders who are able to ensure this digital transition and respond to current and future technological challenges.
“Cybersecurity and artificial intelligence play a central role in protecting sensitive data, preventing cyberattacks and maintaining national sovereignty in cyberspace,” he noted, thus calling for the strengthening of research and training initiatives in these areas in all regions of the Kingdom.
In a press statement, Bougadir also called for close cooperation between Moroccan universities, the private sector and the international community in order to promote innovation, encourage collaborative research and encourage the transfer of knowledge and technology.
For his part, the acting director of ENSA in Marrakech, Hassan Ayad, indicated that the ultimate goal of this scientific meeting is to conduct in-depth thinking with the aim of formulating recommendations aimed at strengthening the resilience of digital infrastructures and preserving the integrity of data against cyber attacks.
“Preserving our cyber security is a matter of primary importance for Morocco. Therefore, we are resolutely committed to designing innovative solutions, based on Moroccan expertise and creativity, with the aim of consolidating our online protection,” He said.
The audience was then treated to lectures and panel discussions held throughout the day, covering a wide range of topics related to artificial intelligence, cyber security and other related fields.
Furthermore, this meeting was marked by the signing of a series of partnership agreements between various stakeholders, aimed at establishing technical laboratories and joint research projects, while facilitating the mobility of students at the global level.
The program of this scientific meeting held in Essaouira and Marrakesh until April 6 includes conferences, round tables, workshops and various interactive activities, thus providing a favorable framework for the exchange of ideas and cooperation among experts with the aim of reaching conclusions. promoting synergy and advancing knowledge in the areas they cover.