UM6P honors four health startups in Benguerir, Morocco
Mohammed VI Polytechnic University honored four student-led health startups at the close of the first edition of its Ibtikar & Wikaya program in Benguerir, backed by the OCP Foundation.
Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) honored four student-led startups in the health field on its Benguerir campus, at the close of the first edition of the "Ibtikar & Wikaya" program, run by the university's Faculty of Medical Sciences (FMS) with support from the OCP Foundation. Launched on March 31, 2026 as a pilot initiative, the program aims to connect medical training, scientific research and entrepreneurship.
200 students and 60 participants across some 20 projects
Since its launch, the program has drawn more than 200 students in medicine, pharmacy and nursing sciences, as well as doctoral students. Of these, 60 worked on about 20 projects, which were narrowed down based on scientific relevance, feasibility and potential impact on public health. Nine teams reached the final stage and pitched to a jury. Throughout the program, participants received training and mentoring from UM6P's Entrepreneurship Academy.
Four startups backed with scientific and business support
| Startup | Field of work |
|---|---|
| RADCHECK | Uses artificial intelligence to improve quality control of chest X-rays and reduce the need to repeat exams |
| BIOTEX | Aims to produce biotechnology reagents locally, reducing reliance on imports and easing lab supply |
| LRRKIT | Designs an affordable kit to detect biomarkers linked to Parkinson's disease |
| SHIFAA ASSISTANCE | Develops a digital platform that makes home healthcare easier to access, especially in remote areas |
The four winning teams will continue developing their solutions with scientific and entrepreneurial support from the Faculty of Medical Sciences.
Toward a bioincubator at the university
UM6P plans to strengthen the program in future editions, ahead of creating a dedicated bioincubator within the university, allowing emerging medical projects to move from concept to real-world application within an integrated scientific and entrepreneurial environment.
The program reflects a growing bet by Morocco's higher-education and research institutions on health innovation, as a lever for developing local solutions that meet the needs of the national health system — from reducing reliance on imported medical supplies to improving access to care in less-equipped areas.