International Development Grant

University Partnership Morocco and Lebanon

Project Number: CA-3-D002690001

Status: Operational

Country/Region:

Lebanon 34.00%
Morocco 66.00%

Maximum Contribution: $3,525,056.00

Start Date: March 17, 2017

End Date: January 31, 2023

Duration: 5.9 years

Project Description

This project supports four institutions of higher education: Cadi Ayyad University in Marrakech Morocco; Mohammed V University in Rabat Morocco; and Balamand University and St. Joseph University in Beirut Lebanon. This project aims to strengthen the role of universities in workforce training and business growth. It supports micro small and medium-sized enterprises especially those run by women. The project also aims to facilitate the diversification of training program offerings through increased use of digital technologies. Project activities include: (1) strengthening targeted universities’ organizational management; (2) create skills for employment programs that are better suited to the needs of businesses and labour markets; and (3) strengthen collaboration between these universities and private sector companies. This initiative is managed by the University of Montreal - CHUM International Health Unit.

Expected Results

The expected outcomes for this project include: (1) increased management-related training including the implementation of new policies procedures and regulations benefiting 80% of the administrators and employees of the four universities; (2) development or revision of professional skills programs benefiting 1600 students in Morocco and 400 students in Lebanon; (3) continuing education activities provided by the universities in partnership with the private sector benefiting 800 students in Morocco and 400 students in Lebanon; (4) Increased support for business development for 120 young entrepreneurs in both countries.

Progress & Results Achieved

Results achieved as of the end of the project (April 2023) include: (1) supported the revision of training programs in high-demand fields to enhance the employability of young graduates. Achievements include the creation of Lebanon's first university program in occupational therapy the overhaul of programs in environmental management public health and family medicine in Morocco and the strengthening of the nursing program in Lebanon; (2) strengthened university management. Universities have set up continuous training programs for administrative staff improving organizational management that takes gender equality and inclusion into account. They have also improved policies regulations guidelines and procedures for better coordination of university activities; and (3) developed distance learning and digital learning platforms. Partner universities have developed distance learning programs and e-learning platforms. This has widened access to education and modernized teaching and learning methods.

Key Information

Executing Agency:
Université de Montréal - Office of Research Services and Development

Reporting Organization:
Global Affairs Canada

Program:
YFMInternaAssistPartnershp&Programing Br

Last Modified:
September 19, 2025

Development Classifications

DAC Sector:

Education policy and administrative management 55%
Higher education 15%
Advanced technical and managerial training 30%

Aid Type: Project-type interventions

Collaboration: Bilateral

Finance Type: Aid grant excluding debt reorganisation

Selection Mechanism:
Call for Proposals

Budget Breakdown
2017-04-01 to 2018-03-31 $3,525,056 CAD
Geographic Information
586
Reference ID: 986