At ISGA Fes , finance is reaching new heights through artificial intelligence
Following the great success of the first edition of the International Conference on Africa and Artificial Intelligence, held last February at ISGA Fes, the imperial city once again became the stage for a high-level intellectual gathering, reaffirming its emerging role as a hub for academic thought and technological innovation on the continent.
On Friday, May 23, 2025, the prestigious conference hall of the Higher Institute of Engineering and Business hosted a major event focused on a pressing contemporary theme: “Enhanced Finance in the Age of Artificial Intelligence”. A conference that was meticulously orchestrated by Mr. Abdelouaret El Wardi, a finance lecturer-researcher and coordinator of the CCA Master’s program, and was praised for the depth of its discussions, the relevance of its speakers, and the intellectual energy it generated.
It’s before a full audience composed of seasoned professors, experienced researchers and inquisitive doctoral candidates, and both Moroccan and international students, that the speakers addressed the contours of a changing financial world. Two renowened speakers have captivated the audience : Mr. Oussama Kharouaa, State-certified engineer and expert in artificial intelligence applied to finance, currently on assignment at La Banque Postale in Paris; and Mr. Abderrahim Hansali, lecturer-researcher in finance at ENCG Marrakech and president of the Morocco Fintech Association.
In an atmosphere filled with seriousness and passion, the speakers presented the many facets of the financial sector’s digital transformation.. From risk management to regulatory compliance and proactive fraud detection, artificial intelligence is now emerging not as a threat but as an essential ally for the modern finance professional. « Today, we are experiencing a true silent revolution in the world of finance, stated Mr. El Wardi. Artificial intelligence does not replace the finance professional ; it empowers them ». He continued acutely: « Thanks to it, we are no longer talking simply about accounting or reporting. We’re talking about anticipation, agility and real-time informed decision-making».
This forward-looking vision was strongly echoed in the remarks of Mr. Kharouaa, whose intervention was praised for both its clarity and depth: « We discussed the contribution of Big Data in the context of banking compliance. The debate was rich, and the exchanges stimulating. The students are curious and well-informed about these issues.They seek to understand how AI is shaping their future professions». His presentation, clear and grounded in practical case studies, successfully captured the interest of a diverse audience, ranging from economics students to enthusiasts algorithmic engineering enthusiasts.
Ms. Siham Ammari, Pedagogical Director of ISGA Fes, did not fail to stress the importance of such an event within the Moroccan academic landscape: «This gathering provided a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas on the profound transformations that the financial sector is experiencing in the digital age. It brought together leading experts, and I want to thank everyone who contributed to its success».
The enthusiasm was also evident on the part of Mr. Achraf Kharouaa, director of the school of management at ISGA Marrakech, who praised the conference as « rich in information, resonating with both professionals and students. The topic of banking compliance, credit scoring and automated fraudulent transactions has captured everyone's attention».
The interest sparked by this event extended well beyond academic circles alone. As evidenced by the vibrant intervention of Sissi Soulaymane, sub-Saharan Master’s student at FSJES in Fes: « I had some concerns about AI, about the risks, hackers, possible drifts. But this debate has provided me with a better understanding of the issues, and eased my doubts. It was an educational conference ». A feeling shared by many of his peers, visibly touched by the cross-disciplinary nature of the topic and the educational approach adopted by the speakers.
For that is precisely what this conference so brilliantly revealed: : the advent of a new finance, both intelligent and responsible. A finance where the machine supports rather than replace humans, where ethics is woven into the very heart of algorithms, and where talent training becomes a major priority. Hajar Filali, professor of computer science at ISGA Fes, puts it correctly: « In the era of digital transformation, AI is redefining the foundations of modern finance. Through predictive analytic, it enables risks anticipation and ensures a more effective compliance».
Thus, after the resounding success of the colloquium on Africa and Artificial Intelligence co-organized with CMEADD, this new academic meeting confirms the vocation of ISGA Fes to position itself at the crossroads of knowledge and transformations in the world. By combining scientific rigour, intellectual openness and technological modernity, the institution is gradually establishing itself as a Pioneer in the African higher education landscape. At a time when artificial intelligence is disrupting established paradigms, Fes, city of memory and future, seems determined to inscribe its name on the map of this silent revolution.
