Promotion of artisanal heritage: a strategic framework agreement for the region

On Thursday, April 17, 2025, the visit of Mr. Lahcen Essaadi, Secretary of State in charge of Handicrafts and the Social and Solidarity Economy, to the Fès-Meknès Chamber of Handicrafts, was marked by the signing of important partnership agreements. These agreements illustrate a strong commitment to innovation and the preservation of the region’s rich artisanal heritage.

Among these initiatives, a framework agreement was signed between the Secretary of State, Mr. Lahcen Essaadi, the President of Euro-Mediterranean University of Fès, Prof. Mostapha Bousmina, and the Fès-Meknès Chamber of Handicrafts. This agreement covers several key areas: the creation of university programs specialized in artisanal trades, support for innovative projects, the conduct of socio-economic studies, the documentation and enhancement of artisanal heritage, as well as the integration of digitalization to improve the competitiveness and commercialization of artisanal products. 

With its research-innovation infrastructure and human capital, UEMF is committed to providing all necessary support for the safeguarding of our cultural heritage. True to its DNA marked by a strong orientation towards sustainable development, the University places environmentally respectful and socially responsible practices at the heart of this approach. This initiative aims to train a new generation of professionals able to master artisanal techniques while integrating sustainable approaches into their production processes. By combining traditional know-how and innovation, these professionals will also develop strong entrepreneurial skills, enabling them to contribute to the growth of the artisanal sector while preserving its natural and human resources.

Furthermore, another partnership agreement was signed between the Secretariat of State and the Federation of Craft Enterprises. This partnership aims to strengthen pedagogical training in glass techniques, in collaboration with the European Center for Research and Training in Glass Arts (CERFAV) in France.