Signing of research and exchange agreements between UM and University Mohammed VI Polytechnic (UM6P) in Morocco on June 16, 2023. From right; Dr. Bruno Gerard (Dean Agriculture UM6P), Hicham Cherkaoui (Director Partnerships, UM6P). Dr. Mario Pinto (VPRI, UM), and Dr. Nasem Badreldin (Professor, UM).
UM signs research and exchange agreements with Moroccan university to advance strategic research priorities
The University of Manitoba has signed research and exchange agreements with University Mohammed VI Polytechnic (UM6P) in Morocco to support research excellence in key priority areas and create new opportunities for faculty and staff at both institutions.
The agreement will see the two institutions develop collaborative research in areas of mutual interest, including green energy, agricultural and environmental sciences, sustainable water management and high-performance materials. Additionally, it will provide Faculty members and students with new opportunities to participate in exchange programs to promote cooperation in academic and research activities. The agreement was signed in Morocco by UM’s Dr. Mario Pinto, Vice-President (Research and International) and made official June 16, 2023.
“UM is proud to initiate this agreement with UM6P, a leading research-intensive university in Morocco, and collaborate on research projects that are aligned with mutual strategic priorities,” said Dr. Pinto. “Through this agreement, we will exchange students and researchers across disciplines to support world-leading innovation and impact in green energy and environmental sustainability for the benefit of both institutions.”
This new collaboration reflects the shared vision of the institutions to accelerate sustainable agricultural management practices in areas including green ammonia and hydrogen development, nutrient and water management, digital agriculture, and achieving net zero emissions for agricultural production.
The University of Manitoba has long-standing institutional relationships with Morocco, including research collaborations through Dr. Mario Tenuta, Senior Industrial Research Chair in 4R Nutrient Management and Professor (Soil Ecology) in the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences.
Dr. Mario Tenuta, Professor in the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences.
Dr. Tenuta is actively collaborating with Fertilizer Canada, Global Affairs Canada, UM6P, the African Plant Nutrition Institute and OCP, a Moroccan-owned company and the largest phosphate fertilizer manufacturer in the world, on a nutrient management project to improve food production and reduce environmental impact to African farmers. This critical project will be supported through the new research and mobility exchange agreement and position UM as a leader in fertilizer management and greenhouse gas reduction expertise.
Dr. Mario Pinto (UM VPRI) and Dr. Nasem Badreldin (Professor, UM) with UM6P officials at the agreement signing ceremony in Morocco.
Research at the University of Manitoba is partially supported by funding from the Government of Canada Research Support Fund.