Italy to establish vocational center in Morocco to train Africa’s next generation of energy experts

The Italian government said it plans to establish a vocational training center in Morocco focused on renewable energy, electrical infrastructure, and energy efficiency, as part of the “Mattei Plan” to renew Italy’s approach to the African continent.

The center will serve all African countries, aiming to boost professional skills in emerging energy sectors, according to the Italian Ministry of Environment and Energy Security.

This initiative was discussed at an international conference on “Green Growth in Africa,” which explored new opportunities for collaboration in the circular economy between Italy and African nations.

The event featured representatives from the Moroccan Embassy in Rome, the Italian Climate Fund, and partners implementing the “Mattei Plan.”

The plan is considered a model for future cooperation, with a focus on training, employment, and entrepreneurship in Africa, while also addressing Italy’s concerns about irregular migration from North Africa.

Fabio Massimo Pallorini, a member of Italy’s Prime Minister’s diplomatic advisory office, noted: “Italy is working to open a training center in the energy sector in Morocco, which could benefit the entire African continent, even though this project will take some time.” He emphasized that the energy sector is one of the key priorities of the “Mattei Plan,” with significant progress already made on energy-related projects.

Renewable energy expert Abdelali Tahriri highlighted Italy’s interest in Morocco’s renewable energy sector, stating, “Italy’s decision to establish a large vocational training center in renewable energy in Morocco stems from its desire to engage in projects with a sustainable green vision, in a field attracting significant international investment.” Tahriri also noted that the Italian government has allocated 5.5 billion euros for the “Mattei Plan,” which includes grants, loans, and investments aimed at advancing Africa’s green transition.

Tahriri emphasized that the initiative aligns with Morocco’s goals to increase renewable energy’s share of electricity production to 52% by 2030, creating over 50,000 new jobs. He concluded that such projects will help accelerate Morocco’s energy transition and position it as a leader in clean energy.