SPL09 LEADING INNOVATION FOR EXCELLENCE IN OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH IN MOROCCAN UNIVERSITIES ON THE EVE OF MAJOR WORLD-CLASS PROJECTS
Authors: Azeddoug Houssine 
Published: July 2024

Leading innovation for excellence in occupational health in Moroccan universities on the eve of major world-class projects involves several key steps and considerations. University leaders are responsible for fostering a culture of innovation within the institution. They should encourage and support innovative teaching methods, research approaches, and administrative practices.

A strategic approach to meet this objective can include the following elements:

• Form a multidisciplinary task force consisting of experts in occupational health, medicine, public health, environmental science, engineering, and administration. This team will lead and coordinate efforts to innovate and improve occupational health practices.

• Conduct a comprehensive assessment of the current occupational health practices and infrastructure in Moroccan universities.

• Gather data on prevalent occupational health issues among university staff and students thanks a SWOT analysis.

• Engage key stakeholders including university administrators, faculty members, staff representatives, students, and relevant government bodies.

• Develop and implement comprehensive policies and guidelines for occupational health and safety tailored to the specific needs and challenges of Moroccan universities.

• Ensure compliance with local regulations and international standards.

• Invest in infrastructure upgrades and resources necessary for ensuring a safe and healthy working and learning environment.

• Establish occupational health clinics or centers within universities equipped with necessary facilities for medical examinations, diagnostics, and treatment.

• Revise academic curricula to integrate contemporary concepts of occupational health and safety across relevant disciplines such as medicine, engineering, environmental science, and management. Offer specialized courses, workshops, and training programs to equip students with practical skills and knowledge.

• Empower designated personnel to handle emergency situations and administer first aid.

• Launch awareness campaigns and initiatives promoting health and wellness among university stakeholders.

• Encourage healthy lifestyle choices and provide resources for stress management and mental health support.

• Foster research collaborations between academia, industry, and government agencies to address emerging occupational health challenges.

• Encourage innovation in the development of new technologies and methodologies for occupational health monitoring and management.

• Foster collaboration with international universities, research institutions, and organizations with expertise in occupational health.

• Exchange best practices, knowledge, and resources to enhance occupational health standards in Moroccan universities.

• Establish mechanisms for continuous monitoring and evaluation of occupational health initiatives.

• Collect feedback from stakeholders and make necessary adjustments to improve effectiveness and efficiency.

• Ensure that occupational health considerations are integrated into the planning and execution of major world-class projects in Moroccan universities.

• Collaborate closely with project stakeholders to identify and mitigate potential occupational health risks associated with project implementation.

In summary, university leadership plays a central role in driving innovation and excellence in occupational health within higher education institutions. By setting the tone, providing, and prioritizing the well-being of all and implementing these strategies, Moroccan universities can effectively lead innovation for excellence in occupational health, thereby creating safer and healthier environments for their faculty, staff, and students, while also contributing to the success of major world-class projects.