Sustainable Oases: Moroccan Students Explore Innovations for the Threatened Ecosystems

Morocco's oases and argan forests, vital ecosystems, face threats from drought and rural flight. Students from Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane engaged in a constructive dialogue with the National Agency for the Development of Oasis Zones and the Argan Tree (ANDZOA) during the Rabat Networking Days event, aiming to explore sustainable solutions.

This two-day event connected academics, professionals in communications and international relations, and served as an interactive platform for students to gain insight into ANDZOA's operations.

Overseeing Morocco's imperiled oases and argan forests, ANDZOA collaborates with authorities to implement and assess programs that support sustainable growth. Technical and socio-economic studies play a pivotal role in shaping initiatives across various sectors, including education, health, tourism, and trades.

During a meeting with the students, ANDZOA's director, Latifa Yaakoubi, provided detailed insights into the agency's efforts. She discussed the challenges posed by drought, rural migration, and the agency's specific focus on women and youth. Morocco is currently experiencing its sixth consecutive year of drought, with rainfall levels 67% below the average. This situation strains agriculture, as water reserves are a mere 23% of last year's capacity.

Expressing deep concern about the impact of climate change on the oases, the students also conveyed hope and interest in the development of climate resilience, alternative livelihoods, and other solutions to preserve these unique regions.

Yaakoubi acknowledged the promising passion of the emerging generation. As future leaders and policymakers, the students have the potential to champion sustainable innovations for Morocco's threatened yet invaluable oases and argan ecosystems. Events such as the Rabat Networking Days play a crucial role in fostering essential dialogues between academia and organizations to address pressing ecological challenges.