Escola Europea explores cooperation with Ibn Zohr University to strengthen logistics education in Morocco
The Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport continues to strengthen its collaboration with higher education institutions across the Mediterranean. During a recent visit to Agadir, representatives of the Escola met with Ibn Zohr University (Université Ibn Zohr – UIZ) to explore opportunities for cooperation in transport, logistics and international trade education.
The meeting provided an opportunity for both institutions to present their educational activities, exchange experiences, and discuss how closer collaboration could contribute to developing the next generation of logistics professionals in Morocco.
Founded in 1989, Ibn Zohr University is one of Morocco’s largest public universities, serving five regions in the south of the country—Souss-Massa, Guelmim-Oued Noun, Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra, Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab and Drâa-Tafilalet. Through campuses in Agadir, Aït Melloul, Ouarzazate, Taroudant, Laâyoune, Guelmim, Smara and Dakhla, the university plays a key role in higher education and regional development.
The meeting was attended by Hossine El Ihssini, Deputy Director in charge of Pedagogical Affairs, and Fouad Achemchem, Deputy Director for Cooperation, who welcomed Eduard Rodés, Director of the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport.
From left to right: Fouad Achemchem, Deputy Director for Cooperation; Eduard Rodés, Director of the Escola Europea – Intermodal Transport; and Hossine El Ihssini, Deputy Director in charge of Pedagogical Affairs at Ibn Zohr University, during the meeting held in Agadir to explore future cooperation in logistics and transport education.
During the discussions, the Escola presented its practical approach to logistics education, its international training activities, and its digital learning initiatives, including the Port Virtual Lab (PVL)—the online simulation platform that allows students and professionals to experience international transport operations through realistic, collaborative scenarios.
One of the key topics explored was the potential integration of Ibn Zohr University into the Port Virtual Lab network. Such cooperation would enable students to participate in simulation-based learning activities alongside participants from other universities and professional training programmes, strengthening both their technical knowledge and their international collaboration skills.
Beyond student participation, both institutions also discussed opportunities to involve other organisations from the Agadir region, creating stronger links between academia, industry and the local logistics ecosystem. This collaborative approach reflects a shared commitment to preparing professionals capable of responding to the rapidly evolving challenges facing transport, ports and international supply chains.
The meeting marks an important first step towards building a long-term partnership between the Escola Europea and Ibn Zohr University, further reinforcing the Escola’s mission of promoting practical, international and collaborative education throughout the Mediterranean region.
