The University Mohammed VI Polytechnic (UM6P) has successfully hosted the second edition of the DeepTech Summit, strengthening its role as a continental innovation powerhouse.

The event, themed “Redefining Progress: How Artificial Intelligence is Transforming DeepTech Innovation,” brought together over 5,500 participants from 53 countries, exploring the intersection of artificial intelligence and frontier science rooted in African realities.

According to a statement, the summit held on May 8–9, 2025, at UM6P’s Benguerir campus had more than 3,000 students and 186 expert speakers, showcasing Africa’s rising influence in global science and innovation value chains.

The event structured around 66 sessions in areas including AI, climatetech, agritech, and quantum computing.

It said DTS served as a robust platform for research exchange, investment collaborations, talent discovery, and deep industry engagement.

A major highlight of the summit was the inaugural DTS Prize, celebrating startups that combined scientific excellence with real-world impact.

Over 300 applications were received from countries including Morocco, Nigeria, Kenya, India, France, and the USA, with 25 per cent of submissions from female founders.

Tunisia’s Cure Bionics was named Best DeepTech Startup in Life Sciences, Sand to Green won in the Green Economy category, and Nyungu Afrika was recognised as the Most Promising African Startup. Each winner received $50,000 and privileged access to UM6P’s cutting-edge research infrastructure and investor ecosystem.

Also, Sawari Ventures was specially recognised for backing transformative science ventures across the continent.

UM6P’s Director of Entrepreneurship and Venturing, Yassine Laghzioui, said the summit reaffirmed that science drives change only when it meets industry, talent, markets, and long-term capital.

“Through its agenda and collaborations, the second edition of the DeepTech Summit has reaffirmed a strong conviction: scientific advances transform the world only when they intersect with industry, talent, markets, and patient capital,” Laghzioui affirmed.

Multiple academic and industrial Memorandums of understanding

were signed, deepening the foundation for African-led technological co-development.

Focused on African-led solutions, DTS 2025 marks a new chapter in global DeepTech collaboration anchored in the continent.