Inauguration of the Renovated and Modernized ISTA of Boujdour
Boujdour: Inauguration of the Specialized Institute of Applied Technology (ISTA)
The Specialized Institute of Applied Technology (ISTA) in Boujdour was officially inaugurated on Monday following extensive renovation and expansion work aimed at modernizing its infrastructure and broadening its training offerings.
The ceremony was presided over by Loubna Tricha, Director General of the Office for Vocational Training and Promotion of Employment (OFPPT), with the presence of provincial governor Ibrahim Ben Ibrahim, along with various elected officials and regional stakeholders. This inauguration is part of the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of the Green March.
A 33 Million Dirham Investment for a New Generation of Institutions
The renovation and expansion project, with a total cost of 33 million dirhams (MDH) — 14 MDH allocated to construction and 19 MDH for equipment — seeks to strengthen OFPPT’s training offerings in the southern provinces of the Kingdom.
This new ISTA exemplifies OFPPT’s ongoing commitment to developing skilled labor and supporting regional economic growth. Established in 1982 as a Professional Qualification Center (CQP) and transformed into an ISTA in 2009, the institution is part of the comprehensive upgrade project for OFPPT’s training framework, in alignment with the national roadmap for vocational training development.
Modern Infrastructure Tailored to Market Needs
Covering a total area of 6,195 square meters, including 2,284 square meters of covered space, the ISTA in Boujdour can accommodate up to 1,064 trainees annually in degree and qualification-awarding programs, with 785 for the first year.
The institution offers 16 training tracks tailored to meet regional market needs, including fields such as:
- Management and Commerce
- Electrical Engineering
- Construction and Public Works (BTP)
- Personal Services
- Automobile Repair
This updated offering aims to prepare young people for future careers, in line with technological and economic developments in the region.
High-Tech Workshops and a Stimulating Learning Environment
The ISTA in Boujdour features modern and interactive educational spaces, including:
- A Building Electrical Workshop
- An Industrial Maintenance Workshop
- A Mechanical Manufacturing Workshop
- An Aluminum Joinery Workshop
- An Automated Systems Workshop
- An Automobile Repair Workshop
Additionally, there are multimedia rooms, a library, a career guidance center, and a space dedicated to the Entrepreneurial Innovation Program (PIE).
The institution also includes language and soft skills classrooms, allowing young people to enhance their linguistic, digital, and behavioral competencies.
OFPPT Strengthens Its Network in the Southern Provinces
As part of its strategy to enhance training offerings in the Southern Provinces, OFPPT plans to provide a total capacity of 22,233 educational places for the year 2025/2026, which includes:
- 13,318 for degree-awarding training
- 7,615 for qualification training
- 1,300 for vocational pathways
The training network established by OFPPT in this region now includes 16 institutions, 3 Cities of Trades and Skills, 5 centers in penitentiary facilities, and a National Center for Individuals with Disabilities Mohammed VI.
Towards Inclusive and Sustainable Vocational Training
The inauguration of ISTA Boujdour reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to including young people in regional development efforts and supporting the creation of sustainable jobs. This project fully aligns with the royal vision for vocational training, positioning human capital as a key driver of national competitiveness and sustainable economic growth.
