The Telfer School of Management at the University of Ottawa is launching an English-language executive MBA in Casablanca, in partnership with ESCA École de Management. Ranked first internationally by CEO Magazine, this world-class program will be offered in person in Morocco starting in 2027, enabling leaders and managers to enjoy an outstanding education without leaving their job or their country.
A key partnership between Canada and Morocco
This new program is part of a well-established partnership between uOttawa and ESCA. In 2022, the two institutions signed a student mobility agreement to mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Marocco and Canada. That same year, the University of Ottawa had the pleasure of installing a plaque commemorating Fatima al Fihriya, founder of the University of al-Qarawiyyin — the oldest still-active university in the world — and launched a pilot project allowing students to complete co-op placements in Morocco with around 40 companies. Implementing the executive MBA in Casablanca marks an important new phase in this partnership and strengthens the University of Ottawa’s presence in North Africa.
“By delocalizing this program, the University of Ottawa will be able to reach professionals who wish to receive a high-quality, internationally-recognized education while remaining rooted in their local reality. The University is exporting its expertise and know how, to the benefit of both institutions,” said Marouane Bentalha, manager of international partnership development for the Middle East and North Africa.
A world-class executive MBA adapted to Africa
The executive MBA offered in Casablanca will draw on all the elements that have forged its reputation in Canada, while adapting it to a Moroccan and African setting. Organized in blocks of four consecutive days every month, this in-person-only format allows participants to balance learning with work responsibilities. Content will be placed in context, particularly concerning finance and and human resource management, to reflect the local regulatory environment and practices unique to the region.
“Our global executive MBA offers the same content as in Canada and our unique, progressive applied experimental learning approach, including six consultation projects, will allow learners to immediately put what they learn into practice,” says Gregory Richards, vice-dean, graduate professional programs, and executive MBA program director.
The program structure will be based on 22 courses, half of which will be offered by each institution, while the joint admission process will aim to select highly motivated applicants.
Direct spinoffs for leaders and organizations
The launch of this executive MBA will help strengthen leadership and organizational performance in Morocco and neighbouring regions. Participants will develop advanced skills in strategic thinking, resource management, complex decision-making and innovation. They will also enjoy an international network of colleagues and experts.
“The collaboration between Telfer and ESCA professors will offer the best of both worlds: understanding of global management practices combined with facility in dealing with local regulations and requirements,” says Richards. “The growth of an international executive MBA student network will help build lasting bridges between Canada and Africa, benefitting business in both countries.”
Dean Stéphane Brutus of the Telfer school is very pleased with this crucial step: “Telfer is pleased to offer this highly-ranked program in Morocco in partnership with ESCA. Our executive MBA graduates have been able to accelerate their careers and make a real impact in their organizations. We can’t wait to collaborate with our ESCA colleagues to support the growth of Moroccan, African and multinational businesses.”
A shared vision of internationalization
For Patrice Corriveau, vice-provost, international, this initiative illustrates uOttawa’s global vision: “This close collaboration with ESCA will allow us to work with very high calibre Moroccan students and innovative African companies. The more we build lasting bridges between institutions, talents and business circles, the more we will strengthen our shared capacity to meet tomorrow’s challenges.”
The official signing of the partnership agreement took place on the ESCA campus, at Casablanca Finance City, in the presence of the Canadian ambassador to Morocco, Moroccan and Canadian political and business figures, and a uOttawa delegation.
