فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
The Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy, and Dentistry in Fez hosted the 12th edition of the Cultural and Sports Days last weekend, organized by the Association of Foreign Students, in celebration of Africa Day. The event was marked by a spirit of cultural diversity and openness.
In his closing remarks for the event, held from May 24 to 26, the President of Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Mostafa Ijjaali, stated that the university currently hosts around 1,700 students from nearly 60 countries, most of whom come from across the African continent. He highlighted that this diversity reflects the university’s commitment to promoting cultural exchange and openness at both regional and international levels.
Ijjaali emphasized that supporting international students and encouraging their integration into university life is a top priority. This is done through activities that reflect their cultures and provide opportunities for engagement in scientific, cultural, artistic, and sports events—fostering values of coexistence and mutual understanding among various nationalities.
For his part, Tarek Saqali El Hassani, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Pharmacy, and Dentistry, noted that this event, now an annual tradition, is part of an institutional strategy that values African presence—particularly given the growing number of African students enrolled in medicine, pharmacy, and dentistry programs. These students represent a significant segment of the faculty’s student body.
El Hassani highlighted that over the years, the faculty has trained numerous African medical professionals who are now contributing meaningfully to their home countries—underscoring the regional and international role of the institution.
During the event, Adam Moussa Hassan, President of the Association of Foreign Students, stated that the celebration served as a platform to showcase Africa’s rich and diverse cultural identity and strengthen solidarity among students of different nationalities. The program featured traditional fashion shows, folklore performances, cooking and dance competitions, and a sports tournament that included football, basketball, volleyball, and table tennis.
The competitions concluded with Guinea winning the prize for fashion and folklore, Zambia taking home the cooking competition award, and Madagascar earning recognition for traditional dance. The football tournament title went to the West Africa team.
Traoré Abdoul Rahman, a third-year student and event coordinator, expressed pride in the success of this edition. He noted that the Association—established in 2007—works closely with the faculty administration to facilitate the integration of foreign students and support their academic journey under favorable conditions.
The closing ceremony also featured the graduation of four African medical students and the awarding of prizes to winners in the various competitions.
This event aligns with the strategic vision of Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, which prioritizes South-South cooperation by welcoming students from across the African continent and fostering an academic path that combines quality education, cultural diversity, and a shared human connection.
Source: Fes News Media
