Valorization 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 the Université Euromed de Fès, Pr. Mostapha Bousmina, and the Fès-Meknès Chamber of Handicrafts. This agreement covers several key areas: the creation of specialized university training programs in handicraft trades, support for innovative projects, conducting socio-economic studies, documenting and promoting artisanal heritage, as well as integrating digitalization to improve the competitiveness and marketing 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 capable of mastering 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 handicraft sector while preserving its natural and human resources.

Furthermore, another partnership agreement was signed between the State Secretariat and the Federation of Handicraft 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.