Latest news with #SidiMohamedBenAbdellahUniversity
Ya Biladi
21 hours ago
- Science
- Ya Biladi
Morocco unearths Africa's oldest evidence of Turiasaur dinosaurs
DR In a remarkable scientific breakthrough, an international team of researchers has unearthed fossilized teeth of a Turiasaurus dinosaur in Morocco's Middle Atlas Mountains, dating back to the Middle Jurassic period, around 168 million years ago. Collected from the Middle Jurassic El Mers III Formation, these fossils represent the oldest evidence of this giant dinosaur group ever found on the African mainland, according to a study published in Acta Palaeontologica Polonica. Turiasaurians were massive, long-necked herbivorous dinosaurs outside the neosauropod lineage. They lived from the Early or Middle Jurassic to the Early Cretaceous and were previously known mainly from discoveries in Europe. The three teeth, recovered from the Boulahfa plains near Boulemane, display the distinctive heart-shaped profile typical of the Turiasauria family. While they resemble the teeth of Turiasaurus, a species discovered in Spain, they lack certain rounded protrusions and instead feature a pronounced ridge and elongated edge. These differences suggest they may belong to a new species or an early evolutionary branch of the group. This discovery marks the first confirmed record of Turiasaurians in Morocco and sheds new light on their early spread across Africa during the Jurassic period. These teeth fill an important gap in our understanding of the evolution and distribution of this dinosaur group, which lived across both ancient continents, Laurasia and Gondwana, explained Dr. D. Cary Woodruff, one of the study's authors. The El Mers III Formation is already celebrated among paleontologists. It previously yielded Spicomellus afer, the world's oldest known ankylosaur, as well as early stegosaurs. Such diversity indicates the region supported a rich variety of dinosaurs during the Middle Jurassic, offering valuable insights into their evolution and geographic range. The research was a collaboration between scientists from the Miami Museum of Science, the Natural History Museum in London, and Morocco's Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University in Fez.
Ya Biladi
29-06-2025
- Business
- Ya Biladi
Diaspo #395 : Hicham Amrani, the Moroccan training Gulf leaders in the art of public speaking
From the ancient streets of Fez to training platforms across the Gulf, and from the lecture halls of the Faculty of Arts to the book-signing tables of the Sharjah International Book Fair, Moroccan professional Hicham Amrani has traced a unique path, where a love for learning meets human connection, and where self-discovery fuels a drive to make an impact. From Fez to the United States Born in Fez in 1975, Hicham Amrani pursued his higher education in the English Department at Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University. After graduating in the summer of 1999, he took a leap and joined a cultural exchange program in Orlando, Florida, working for a year as a cultural representative at Disney—a formative experience that would open new and unexpected doors. In an interview with Yabiladi, he recalled: «After that year, thanks to a generous scholarship, I was accepted to the University of Pennsylvania», where he pursued a master's degree in political science while also studying Arabic and other subjects. «It wasn't easy», he admitted, «but I overcame the challenges because studying in the U.S. had always been my dream». Amrani later enrolled in a PhD program in international relations at the London School of Economics. However, due to personal circumstances, he had to pause his studies. That decision led him to a new chapter in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). «I initially went to visit my brother», he said, «and ended up working in public relations, strategic communication, and marketing for two years». He then moved to Canada, spending three and a half years in the financial sector. «I obtained several certificates and diplomas in finance, which helped a lot professionally. But I knew deep down that finance wasn't my final path, I've always been drawn to more creative fields». Serendipity and a Thousand Appointments Amrani eventually returned to the UAE, motivated by three things: his existing network, his fluency in English, and the region's dynamic economic and technological environment. He joined APCO Worldwide, a global strategic communications firm, working with local and federal government institutions. There, he began to gain recognition in the Gulf as a communications expert. «One event changed everything», he said. «We received a call from a high-level official preparing to speak at a global forum. He needed a coach to help him with his speech. My director assigned me the task, and I accepted without hesitation. I've always believed there's no room for 'I don't know' in our field. I encourage my team to embrace challenges because growth starts with courage». At the time, Amrani was training media professionals to handle cameras and tough interview questions. After a week of coaching, the official delivered his speech and personally thanked Amrani. He later recommended him to other influential figures. «Within eight months, my role shifted significantly, from consultant to trainer». He gradually began coaching high-profile clients and soon became a certified trainer for several major figures in the region. «With God's grace and my parents' blessings, I carved out a place for myself in the training field», he said. «I continued my education and earned multiple certifications in a field that values communication as a powerful tool, not just for delivery, but for shaping perceptions and public opinion». In 2015, Amrani founded his own firm dedicated to training and strategic consulting in communication and leadership. His services soon expanded to clients across the Gulf. Writing During Lockdown «When the COVID-19 lockdown hit, I found myself, like many, with a lot of unexpected free time», he said. «One night, I just opened my laptop and started writing. In a single session, I finished ten pages. Two days later, I reread them and realized I had the beginning of something bigger». He shared the draft with a British friend who encouraged him to continue, saying: «This deserves to be published». By 2023, Amrani had completed and polished his first book, SPEAK LIKE A VIP: A Practical Guide to Mastering the Art of Public Speaking. It debuted in November 2024 at the Sharjah International Book Fair. «What made it even more special», he said, «was the incredible coincidence : Morocco was the guest of honor that year». Amrani said the warm reception from the Moroccan pavilion team was deeply meaningful and reinforced that the effort had been worth it. The book generated strong interest, and many readers later sought out training based on its contents. He also launched an Instagram page to promote the book. «Many clients who read it came back to me asking for coaching and workshops related to its themes». He is now working on translating the book into Arabic and plans to launch the Arabic edition at the 2025 Sharjah International Book Fair. «I hope to also organize a book signing in Morocco, whether at the Rabat International Book Fair or another cultural event, that would be an honor». For Deeper and More Impactful Training This year, Amrani enrolled in a master's program in neuroscience and psychology at King's College London. «This is a natural extension of my work», he explained. «A large part of what I do involves understanding human behavior, especially how people react under stress or pressure. I touched on that in the first part of my book». «Studying how the brain works and how it influences decision-making allows me to offer training that's grounded in science, not just intuition|, he added. Despite his international career, Hicham Amrani remains deeply connected to Morocco. «Whenever I have the chance, I talk about Morocco—its history, its culture, its people. I truly believe that every person abroad, even unofficially, is an ambassador for their country». In 2018, he organized his first conference in Morocco, The Conference on Happiness and Human Development, in Casablanca. «The turnout and engagement were incredible», he said. «I wanted to continue the series, but juggling logistics between two countries made it difficult», he regretted.
Ya Biladi
28-06-2025
- Business
- Ya Biladi
Diaspo #395 : Hicham Amrani, the Moroccan training Gulf leaders in the art of public speaking
From the ancient streets of Fez to training platforms across the Gulf, and from the lecture halls of the Faculty of Arts to the book-signing tables of the Sharjah International Book Fair, Moroccan professional Hicham Amrani has traced a unique path, where a love for learning meets human connection, and where self-discovery fuels a drive to make an impact. From Fez to the United States Born in Fez in 1975, Hicham Amrani pursued his higher education in the English Department at Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University. After graduating in the summer of 1999, he took a leap and joined a cultural exchange program in Orlando, Florida, working for a year as a cultural representative at Disney—a formative experience that would open new and unexpected doors. In an interview with Yabiladi, he recalled: «After that year, thanks to a generous scholarship, I was accepted to the University of Pennsylvania», where he pursued a master's degree in political science while also studying Arabic and other subjects. «It wasn't easy», he admitted, «but I overcame the challenges because studying in the U.S. had always been my dream». Amrani later enrolled in a PhD program in international relations at the London School of Economics. However, due to personal circumstances, he had to pause his studies. That decision led him to a new chapter in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). «I initially went to visit my brother», he said, «and ended up working in public relations, strategic communication, and marketing for two years». He then moved to Canada, spending three and a half years in the financial sector. «I obtained several certificates and diplomas in finance, which helped a lot professionally. But I knew deep down that finance wasn't my final path, I've always been drawn to more creative fields». Serendipity and a Thousand Appointments Amrani eventually returned to the UAE, motivated by three things: his existing network, his fluency in English, and the region's dynamic economic and technological environment. He joined APCO Worldwide, a global strategic communications firm, working with local and federal government institutions. There, he began to gain recognition in the Gulf as a communications expert. «One event changed everything», he said. «We received a call from a high-level official preparing to speak at a global forum. He needed a coach to help him with his speech. My director assigned me the task, and I accepted without hesitation. I've always believed there's no room for 'I don't know' in our field. I encourage my team to embrace challenges because growth starts with courage». At the time, Amrani was training media professionals to handle cameras and tough interview questions. After a week of coaching, the official delivered his speech and personally thanked Amrani. He later recommended him to other influential figures. «Within eight months, my role shifted significantly, from consultant to trainer». He gradually began coaching high-profile clients and soon became a certified trainer for several major figures in the region. «With God's grace and my parents' blessings, I carved out a place for myself in the training field», he said. «I continued my education and earned multiple certifications in a field that values communication as a powerful tool, not just for delivery, but for shaping perceptions and public opinion». In 2015, Amrani founded his own firm dedicated to training and strategic consulting in communication and leadership. His services soon expanded to clients across the Gulf. Writing During Lockdown «When the COVID-19 lockdown hit, I found myself, like many, with a lot of unexpected free time», he said. «One night, I just opened my laptop and started writing. In a single session, I finished ten pages. Two days later, I reread them and realized I had the beginning of something bigger». He shared the draft with a British friend who encouraged him to continue, saying: «This deserves to be published». By 2023, Amrani had completed and polished his first book, SPEAK LIKE A VIP: A Practical Guide to Mastering the Art of Public Speaking. It debuted in November 2024 at the Sharjah International Book Fair. «What made it even more special», he said, «was the incredible coincidence : Morocco was the guest of honor that year». Amrani said the warm reception from the Moroccan pavilion team was deeply meaningful and reinforced that the effort had been worth it. The book generated strong interest, and many readers later sought out training based on its contents. He also launched an Instagram page to promote the book. «Many clients who read it came back to me asking for coaching and workshops related to its themes». He is now working on translating the book into Arabic and plans to launch the Arabic edition at the 2025 Sharjah International Book Fair. «I hope to also organize a book signing in Morocco, whether at the Rabat International Book Fair or another cultural event, that would be an honor». For Deeper and More Impactful Training This year, Amrani enrolled in a master's program in neuroscience and psychology at King's College London. «This is a natural extension of my work», he explained. «A large part of what I do involves understanding human behavior, especially how people react under stress or pressure. I touched on that in the first part of my book». «Studying how the brain works and how it influences decision-making allows me to offer training that's grounded in science, not just intuition|, he added. Despite his international career, Hicham Amrani remains deeply connected to Morocco. «Whenever I have the chance, I talk about Morocco—its history, its culture, its people. I truly believe that every person abroad, even unofficially, is an ambassador for their country». In 2018, he organized his first conference in Morocco, The Conference on Happiness and Human Development, in Casablanca. «The turnout and engagement were incredible», he said. «I wanted to continue the series, but juggling logistics between two countries made it difficult», he regretted.
See - Sada Elbalad
21-04-2025
- Politics
- See - Sada Elbalad
Seminar at RIBF Highlights Promoting Intra-Islamic Dialogue
Mohamed Mandour As part of its cultural program at the 30th edition of the Rabat International Book Fair (RIBF), the Muslim Council of Elders hosted its second cultural seminar, titled 'The Problem of the Ummah's Division into Sunnis and Shiites.' The session was moderated by Dr. Mohamed Gamal, a researcher at the Heritage Revival Office of Al-Azhar, and featured a presentation by Dr. Elias Mohamed Belka, Professor at Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University in Fez and Director of Strategic Studies at the Al Hokama Center for Peace Research. Opening the session, Dr. Mohamed Gamal emphasized that the Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, is undertaking tireless efforts to mend the divisions within the Islamic nation. He highlighted the Grand Imam's 2022 call for intra-Islamic dialogue aimed at rejecting sectarian strife and conflict and reuniting the diverse schools of thought within Islam. These efforts culminated in the first edition of the Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference, held in February this year in the Kingdom of Bahrain under the theme 'One Ummah… One Shared Destiny.' A major outcome of the conference was the Call of the People of the Qibla—a comprehensive charter for unity and reconciliation within the Ummah. Dr. Elias Mohamed Belka, Professor at Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University in Fez and Director of Strategic Studies at the Al Hokama Center for Peace Research, commended the efforts of the Muslim Council of Elders, led by Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, in bridging the divide across the Islamic world. He noted that the Al Hokama Center has given significant attention to the issue of sectarian division, and recently published a book titled 'The Problem of the Ummah's Division into Sunnis and Shiites: Origins and Solutions.' read more New Tourism Route To Launch in Old Cairo Ahmed El Sakka-Led Play 'Sayidati Al Jamila' to Be Staged in KSA on Dec. 6 Mandy Moore Joins Season 2 of "Dr. Death" Anthology Series Don't Miss These Movies at 44th Cairo Int'l Film Festival Today Amr Diab to Headline KSA's MDLBEAST Soundstorm 2022 Festival Arts & Culture Mai Omar Stuns in Latest Instagram Photos Arts & Culture "The Flash" to End with Season 9 Arts & Culture Ministry of Culture Organizes four day Children's Film Festival Arts & Culture Canadian PM wishes Muslims Eid-al-Adha News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia Lifestyle Pistachio and Raspberry Cheesecake Domes Recipe News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Videos & Features Bouchra Dahlab Crowned Miss Arab World 2025 .. Reem Ganzoury Wins Miss Arab Africa Title (VIDEO) Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple
Morocco World
11-04-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Al Akhawayn University Launches ‘Ventures Adventure' to Boost Student Entrepreneurship
Rabat – Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane (AUI) has launched a new edition of its Entrepreneurship Month, called Ventures Adventure, which is running from April 7 to 26. Through Ventures Adventure, AUI aims to help students discover their talents, build confidence, and learn how to turn ideas into action, said the university in a press release. This year, the event is bigger and more inclusive. It is inviting students and teachers from three other Moroccan universities, including Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University in Fez, Moulay Ismaïl University in Meknes, and Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) in Ben Guerir. According to Nicolas Klotz, AUI's Executive Director of Entrepreneurship, opening Ventures Adventure to other universities marks an important step forward. 'It's a valuable opportunity to pool knowledge, energy, and ambition,' he stated. The event includes a startup competition with three rounds, open both online and in-person. Out of 100 startup ideas, 55 will move to the second round, and 20 finalists will compete in the final stage. Winners will receive prizes to help them launch and grow their projects. The statement noted that participants will receive support at every step from experienced coaches and mentors. In the first stage, five coaches are set to guide teams through quick idea development. In the next phase, 30 mentors from public and private organizations, including Attijariwafa Bank, the Digital Development Agency, and the Founder Institute, will help improve the projects. In the final round, 12 investors and business angels will review the best projects and choose the winners. The competition will end with the Angel Awards Ceremony on April 26, where top teams will receive investment, startup support, and personal mentoring opportunities. 'It's not just about creating startups, but about shaping a mindset,' said Amine Bensaid, AUI president. 'We want our students to feel empowered to explore multiple avenues, to take initiative, and to maintain this entrepreneurial energy regardless of the path they choose. That's what makes the AUI difference.' This year's edition includes other activities like fun workshops inspired by Babson College in the US to teach entrepreneurship in new ways, workshops for teachers to learn how to use games in their classrooms, and a practical session to build e-commerce websites using AI, without needing to code, among others. Students and teachers will also visit the International Agriculture Show (SIAM) in Meknes to meet experts in agritech, agribusiness, and social entrepreneurship, especially around water management. Tags: auientrepreneurship
