MTYM 2025: Ifrane Celebrates the Next Generation of Mathematical Talent

Co-organized by Al Akhawayn University and Math Maroc, MTYM has established itself as a genuine incubator of scientific talent, showcasing a generation that is ambitious, rigorous and oriented toward high-level research. Unlike traditional competitions, the tournament stands out for its demanding, research-based format. Over a three-month period, selected teams work on complex mathematical problems before defending their findings in structured scientific debates inspired by international university standards.

The 2025 edition recorded unprecedented interest, with 1,012 applications from across the country. Following a rigorous selection process and sustained academic mentoring, 185 high school students, grouped into 44 teams, qualified for the final phase, representing a selection rate of 18 percent.

These participants came from 36 cities and 11 regions of the Kingdom, with the presence of one student from the Moroccan diaspora, highlighting the inclusive and truly national character of MTYM, as well as the growing involvement of Moroccan expertise based abroad in shaping the country’s scientific ecosystem.

By hosting the competition, Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane further reinforced its status as a leading academic institution at both national and international levels, and as a bridge between elite secondary education and high-level university research. In line with its international academic standards, the university provided participants with an environment conducive to intellectual exchange, including modern infrastructure, collaborative spaces and supervision by experienced faculty members and mentors.

“By hosting MTYM on its campus, Al Akhawayn University reaffirms its role as a national reference platform for pedagogical innovation and the training of future scientists,” said Dr Rabie Zine, Head of the Mathematics Department at AUI and President of the Math Maroc organizing committee. He stressed that such initiatives help build strong links between high school, research and excellence in higher education.

This immersion in AUI’s academic ecosystem allowed students to become familiar with the demands of international research and to refine their ambitions in key fields for Morocco’s scientific and technological development, particularly applied mathematics and artificial intelligence.

MTYM 2025 was also marked by a rich program of lectures and discussions led by prominent Moroccan researchers working at prestigious institutions. Among them were Dr Yassir Jedra, a lecturer and researcher at Imperial College London, Dr Youssef Hbid, a Research Associate in healthcare quality improvement at the same institution, as well as other speakers from universities including Cornell University.

Participants also took part in an inspiring exchange with Mohamed Bounouar, Head of AI Transformation at OCP Skills and Professional School (SPS), who addressed the practical applications of artificial intelligence and the scientific skills that will shape the professions of tomorrow.

Far more than a competition, the third edition of MTYM has become a major milestone in Morocco’s national scientific calendar, illustrating the synergy between diaspora researchers, an excellence-driven university and organizations committed to expanding access to science.

By promoting research, critical thinking and academic excellence, Al Akhawayn University once again confirms its central role in educational innovation and its commitment to nurturing a new generation of Moroccan scientists capable of carrying the Kingdom’s ambitions far beyond the football pitch.

Editorial team/le7tv