Aboutajdine Driss

Professor Driss Aboutajdine (1955–2017) was a visionary leader and a pioneering figure in Moroccan higher education and scientific research. As a world-class scientist specializing in signal processing, telecommunications, and digital technology, he dedicated his life to transforming Morocco's academic landscape. Through his high-impact research, institutional governance, and mentorship, he shaped national research strategies and fostered critical international partnerships that positioned Morocco as a rising hub for technological innovation in the Mediterranean region.His academic journey was rooted in deep cross-border collaboration, culminating in a State Doctorate in Physical Sciences from Mohammed V University in Rabat, completed in partnership with Paris 8 University. This foundation paved the way for an illustrious career at Mohammed V University, where he served as a professor and founded the prestigious Research Laboratory in Information Technology and Telecommunications (LRIT). As Vice-President of Research and Academic Affairs, he championed the global indexing of Moroccan research, structured competitive doctoral programs, and mentored dozens of doctoral students who now lead tech sectors worldwide.Professor Aboutajdine’s profound impact on national science policy was formalized through his leadership roles at the highest levels of governance. In 2013, he was appointed Director of the National Center for Scientific and Technical Research (CNRST), where he managed national research funding, high-performance computing units, and institutional infrastructures. His scientific authority was further recognized by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, who appointed him as a Resident Member of the Hassan II Academy of Sciences and Techniques, where he directed the Scientific College of Modeling and Information.Beyond Morocco, his expertise earned him global acclaim and major international distinctions. In 2007, he was elected as a Fellow of The World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) for his contributions to tech advancement in developing nations. He was a prolific researcher, authoring over 200 international journal papers and conference proceedings. His work focused on cutting-edge fields like advanced facial recognition algorithms, computer-aided medical diagnostics, and energy-efficient wireless sensor networks.Today, his legacy lives on through the vibrant Franco-Moroccan scientific networks he built and the thriving digital research community in North Africa. To honor his lifelong commitment to young scientists, the annual Driss Aboutajdine Prize was established during the Franco-Moroccan Doctoriales, celebrating outstanding innovation and research excellence among doctoral students.