The Direction des Archives Royales and Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) signed a framework partnership agreement in Rabat on Tuesday to modernize the preservation and research of Morocco’s national documentary heritage. The collaboration focuses on using artificial intelligence, digitization, and digital humanities to manage and promote the country’s written and intangible cultural assets.
What are the primary goals of the partnership?
The agreement, signed by Royal Archives Director Bahija Simou and UM6P President Hicham El Habti, is structured around two main areas of cooperation. The first axis focuses on training and skill reinforcement in the fields of archives, heritage, documentation, and digital technologies applied to culture.
The second axis involves the preservation, digitization, and valorization of documentary collections. According to the two institutions, the partnership aims to transform national heritage into a base for knowledge and innovation by converging research with artificial intelligence.
How will technology be used to preserve Moroccan heritage?
The partnership intends to implement a cooperation plan centered on the digitization of the Royal Archives through artificial intelligence. Hicham El Habti noted that this technological approach is designed to support the international cultural influence of Morocco.
Bahija Simou stated that the agreement will strengthen the exchange of expertise and the training of professionals, specifically in the areas of digitization and AI. The UM6P Maou’root Heritage Center, which is dedicated to the preservation of Morocco’s intangible heritage, already utilizes data science and digital humanities to serve these national cultural goals.
Did You Know? The UM6P Maou’root Heritage Center is an entity dedicated to the preservation and valorization of Moroccan intangible heritage, mobilizing digital humanities, data science, and artificial intelligence for the national cultural heritage.
Why does this agreement matter for researchers?
The collaboration aims to make national archives more accessible to Moroccan researchers to strengthen scientific research regarding the nation’s history. Simou affirmed that the partnership is part of an effort to open the Direction des Archives Royales to the academic world and the broader scientific community.
To further promote national heritage, Simou explained that the agreement includes the organization of exhibitions and the publication of scientific works. These publications will focus on the country’s written, material, and intangible heritage.
Expert Insight: The partnership comes in a context of digital transformation where archives are becoming strategic resources, integrating artificial intelligence and digitization to make documentary heritage serve as a base for knowledge and innovation.
What could happen next?
The cooperation may lead to the development of new research axes and further institutional partnerships, according to Hicham El Habti. Additionally, the two organizations may begin co-organizing various scientific and cultural events as part of their joint cooperation plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who signed the partnership agreement?
The agreement was signed by Bahija Simou, the Director of the Royal Archives, and Hicham El Habti, the President of UM6P.
Where and when did the signing occur?
The signing took place in Rabat on Tuesday.
What specific technologies will be utilized?
The partnership will focus on the use of artificial intelligence, digitization, digital humanities, and data science.
How can the integration of AI change the way we study national history?
