Participants at Morocco’s first National Conference on Artificial Intelligence (AI), held in Sale on July 1 and 2, have called for the urgent development of a comprehensive national AI roadmap.
This roadmap aims to define Morocco’s strategic priorities, objectives, and essential ethical safeguards for the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence.
According to final recommendations released on Wednesday, the conference attendees also advocated for the swift adoption of legislative texts to govern the development and use of AI. These laws, which should align with international standards, are crucial for guaranteeing transparency, privacy protection, and accountability in AI applications.
On the technological front, participants emphasized the need to create secure national data platforms, develop high-capacity data centers, and significantly strengthen cybersecurity. They also recommended increasing support for research and development through robust partnerships between public and private sectors.
The conference strongly encouraged the practical application of AI in vital social sectors, including healthcare, education, infrastructure management, and ensuring water and energy security. Participants also highlighted the importance of integrating AI into administrative services, preserving cultural heritage, and modernizing public services nationwide.
For economic development, the recommendations propose targeted support for startups and SMEs to help them integrate AI-based solutions. This would primarily involve establishing specialized incubators and dedicated support programs.
Finally, attendees called for strengthening international cooperation, particularly South-South cooperation, and establishing specialized research centers at both national and African levels. They also recommended the regular organization of international events focused on artificial intelligence.
This push for a national AI roadmap highlights Morocco’s ambition to harness AI for its development while proactively addressing the ethical and regulatory challenges. What specific ethical considerations do you think are most pressing for Morocco as it develops its AI strategy?
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