Nokia launches first innovation bub in Africa and the Middle East

Nokia Group International has inaugurated its first innovation center in Africa and the Middle East, located in Salé, Morocco. The launch event was attended by notable dignitaries, including the Ambassador of Finland to Morocco, Ms. Marjana Sall, and the Ambassador of the United States to Morocco, Mr. Bonet Talloir, along with various representatives from both public and private sectors.

The newly established Nokia Innovation Center is equipped with cutting-edge network infrastructure technology, including advanced fixed IP and optical networks. The new center aims to bolster Nokia's presence in Morocco's national ICT ecosystem, providing practical training opportunities for engineering students from high schools and universities. Over the next three years, the center plans to offer certification training to a total of 500 students, thus enhancing the skill sets of future professionals in the region.

Speaking during the inauguration, the Delegate-Minister to the Head of Government in charge of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, Ghita Mezzour expressed her enthusiasm for the opening of Nokia's Innovation Center, calling it a confirmation to Morocco's capability to attract leading technology companies. She outlined the center's role in promoting innovation on the African continent, stating, “This center will contribute to strengthening Morocco's position as a regional platform for digital services in the EMEA region.”

The Nokia Innovation Center is designed not only to serve as a hub for advanced technology in the region but also to provide essential training resources. It will leverage Nokia's extensive Network Infrastructure portfolio, which spans Fixed Networks, IP, and Optical Networks, to ensure that students gain exposure to the latest technologies in the field.

Moreover, the establishment of this center reflects a strategic initiative to strengthen the collaboration between industry and academia, creating a robust pipeline of skilled talent ready to meet the demands of the evolving digital landscape. The hands-on training provided by the Innovation Center aims to equip students with the knowledge and experience necessary to thrive in the rapidly advancing technology sector.

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye