Welcoming teh choice of Essaouira for the meeting of the first Council of the Academy, Mr. Azoulay recalled that it was in 2021/2022 that Morocco’s candidacy to host the headquarters of the AIFS was voted on and institutionalized, the Kingdom thus becoming one of the first strategic partners of the Association Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF).
Highlighting the strategic nature of the scope of intervention of the AIFS,which includes more than 1,000 universities and scientific academies on all continents,HM the King’s Advisor underlined “the determining weight of the countries of the South in this space,which aspires to a plural Francophonie,attentive to the potential and expectations of rising generations,keen to transform the culture and language they share into levers of optimization and pooling,thus opening new horizons to the scientific Francophonie,which remains marginalized with regard to it’s place and its referential visibility in the world of recognized and indexed publications,which are authoritative in the world of research and science.
“The challenges are numerous,” added Mr. Azoulay “but they have resonated here in Essaouira, thanks to the assets embodied by a plural Francophonie of Science and Research, strong in its youth and its ambitions which will now find in Morocco and with the AIFS which has taken up residence there, the promises of a partnership concerned with promoting the richness and diversity of a scientific Francophonie in movement.
Held in the emblematic “Bayt Dakira” space, the first session of the Board of Directors of the AIFS, a new structure led by the AUF, was devoted to the adoption of the founding statutes of this institution inaugurated in 2023 and of which the headquarters is established in Rabat.
This meeting brought together around thirty members of the Board of Directors, including renowned experts, professors and academics from the four corners of the globe.
At the same time, an international conference on the mobility of young researchers was organized to discuss issues related to access to academic mobility opportunities, scientific cooperation and the challenges associated with administrative, financial and logistical obstacles.
What are the main goals of the Academy of Francophone Scientific Institutions (AIFS) in promoting research collaboration?
Interview with Mr. Azoulay: Insights on the AIFS and the Future of Francophone Science and Research
Time.news editor: Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Azoulay. It’s great to have you here to discuss the historic meeting of the first Council of the Academy of Francophone Scientific Institutions (AIFS) in Essaouira. can you tell us about the meaning of morocco being chosen as the host country for this critically important gathering?
Mr. Azoulay: Thank you for having me. The choice of Essaouira underscores Morocco’s commitment to enhancing its role in the global Francophone community,particularly in the fields of science and research. as 2021/2022, when Morocco’s candidacy to host the AIFS headquarters was institutionalized, the Kingdom has emerged as a pivotal strategic partner for the Association Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF). This move not only elevates Morocco’s profile but also aligns with our vision for a plural Francophonie that embraces diverse voices and contributions from the Global south.
Time.news Editor: That’s an insightful viewpoint. You mentioned the strategic scope of the AIFS, wich connects more than 1,000 universities and scientific academies worldwide. How does this impact the depiction of Southern countries in the arena of scientific research?
Mr. azoulay: The AIFS aims to amplify the presence of Southern countries within the Francophone scientific community. Historically, these nations have been marginalized in terms of visibility and authority in high-impact publications. By building partnerships and fostering collaboration, we aspire to elevate the contributions of emerging generations, making science a lever for empowerment. This is crucial for creating new opportunities in academia and driving innovative research that resonates globally.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned the “plural Francophonie of Science and Research” during your speech.What does this mean for young researchers and their aspirations?
Mr. Azoulay: A plural Francophonie of Science and Research embodies the richness of diverse voices in the scientific dialog. For young researchers,this means access to a broader network of collaboration opportunities and resources.We held an international conference focused on the mobility of young researchers,addressing challenges such as accessing academic opportunities and overcoming administrative barriers. We believe that fostering an inclusive and supportive environment is essential to nurturing the ambitions of our youth.
Time.news Editor: That brings us to an important topic—academic mobility. What practical advice would you give to young researchers facing challenges in this area?
Mr. Azoulay: Young researchers should actively seek programs and partnerships aimed at enhancing mobility such as those offered by the AIFS and AUF. Networking is vital; building connections with established academics can lead to mentoring opportunities and guidance. Additionally, I encourage them to utilize available tools and platforms that facilitate access to research funding, internships, and collaborations. Lastly, remaining adaptable and proactive in navigating bureaucratic barriers can significantly improve their chances of success.
Time.news Editor: what are your hopes for the future of the AIFS and the role it will play in the Francophone scientific community?
Mr. Azoulay: My hopes are rooted in the belief that the AIFS will serve as a catalyst for change, enabling a more integrated and dynamic scientific community across the Francophonie. By promoting scientific collaboration and visibility, we can redefine the narrative around research from the Global South. I am optimistic that through our shared efforts, we will cultivate an environment where all voices are valued, and innovative research flourishes, opening new horizons for future generations.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Mr. Azoulay, for sharing your valuable insights. It’s inspiring to see how the AIFS is poised to transform the landscape of francophone science and research.
Mr. Azoulay: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these critical issues. I look forward to seeing how our collective endeavors will shape the future of scientific francophonie.