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Shaping Tomorrow's Industry with AI: An Interview with Mehdi Sebti, Director of Arts et Métiers Rabat

Shaping Tomorrow's Industry with AI: An Interview with Mehdi Sebti, Director of Arts et Métiers Rabat

Morocco World13-04-2025

Rabat — Walking through the lively halls of Arts et Métiers' campus of Rabat, Director Mehdi Sebti speaks with evident passion about the institution's strategic focus on artificial intelligence.
Apart from its three pillars including mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, and power engineering, the Arts et Métiers campus of Rabat follows up the new AI technological advancement and works towards including state-of-the-art AI technologies in its curriculum.
'The ambitious integration of artificial intelligence into our curriculum forms a cornerstone of our institution's identity,' Sebti told Morocco World News. 'Our campus focuses on the practical application of AI technologies in industrial processes.'
This strategic orientation, following trends in AI, aims to create a new generation of cutting-edge engineers capable of harnessing AI tools for concrete industrial applications. It hopes to train future engineers in varying ways — from predictive maintenance to automated quality control, digital twins, and energy optimization.
The institution sets itself apart from other engineering schools with a teaching approach that focuses on hands-on learning through real-world industrial case studies.
In line with its education strategy, the Arts et Métiers campus of Rabat has secured a notable partnership with Huawei Morocco, intending to allow students the opportunity to harness their skills and earn recognized certifications in cloud computing, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and 5G technologies.
Sebti believes that 'this practical approach helps bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and industry demands,' and will ensure future engineers who graduate from the Arts et Métiers campus of Rabat thrive in their professional careers in the industrial world.
When asked what are the notable achievements for this academic year? Sebti said that the campus has made significant developments and is expanding with a new building dedicated to teaching, research, and innovation at the heart of Mohammed VI Polytechnic University Rabat. This modern facility welcomes students from the Grande École Program and the bachelor's program in Technologies for the Industry of the Future.
'Our new space promotes experimentation, collaboration, and international exposure — all essential elements for tomorrow's engineers,' Sebti noted.
The institution continues to strengthen its connections with industry partners. A recent strategic agreement with Anouar Invest Group, supported by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, aims to enhance job placement for graduates and encourage knowledge transfer.
Meanwhile, additional partnerships with industry federations, particularly in plastics manufacturing and railway sectors, ensure the curriculum remains aligned with market needs.
Beyond a professional and to-the-point practical educational approach, ensuring that students are ready for their careers outside of the Arts et Métiers campus remains a fundamental goal. 'We believe career preparation begins from day one,' Sebti explained.
The campus organizes recruiter meetings, provides personalized guidance, designs internships in collaboration with companies, and leverages its strong international network to prepare students for professional success.
Beyond technical expertise, Arts et Métiers campus of Rabat prioritizes the development of crucial 'power skills' in project management, teamwork, and cross-cultural communication — capabilities increasingly valued in the evolving industrial landscape.
Sebti concluded that the school ' continues to fulfill its mission: training agile talents who understand contemporary industrial challenges in Morocco and Africa, and who are committed to innovation and transformation.'
Since its founding, the institution has established itself as a key player in training engineers and managers for Morocco's industrial sector, successfully combining academic excellence, technological innovation, and immersion in industrial realities. Tags: Arts et Métiers Rabat campusEducationEngineeringEngineering students

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