This upcoming webinar explores the dynamic world of innovation ecosystems within the railway sector, focusing on how collaboration and research drive sustainable mobility. The event is co-organised by ONCF (a UIC Member) and the UIC International Railway Research Board (IRRB), which develops the Regional Competence Hubs (RCHs) for innovation and education across the six UIC regions, including Africa, and provides support, grounded in scientific rigor, through the IRRB Academic Board for Innovation.
Bringing together key industry leaders and academic experts, the session will discuss open innovation models, the integration of startups into the transport landscape, and the vital role of universities in developing the skills and technologies of the future. Over 120 minutes, participants will gain insights into global partnerships and technological transfers that are shaping smarter, more sustainable transport systems.
Webinar Agenda 11:00-13:00 GMT+2
WELCOME ADDRESS: Opening remarks from the ONCF Director General/Chairman of UIC Africa Mohamed Rabie Khlie and the UIC Director General François Davenne.
ROUND 1: Universities and research – developing talent and technologies for sustainable mobility. This panel aims to highlight the role of universities and research centers in shaping innovative ecosystems, particularly through partnerships with industry, technology transfer, and the development of the skills needed for future mobility systems. Contributors include representatives from:
- Introduction to Panel I – UIC
- EURNEX (Moderator)
- UIC International Railway Research Board Academic Board for innovation / UoB/ BCRRE
- Mohammed VI Polytechnic University - INNOVX
- Southwest Jiaotong University (SWJTU)
- University of Birmingham – Campus in Dubai
ROUND 2: Open innovation – collaboration between the railway sector, industry, and startups to accelerate sustainable mobility. This panel discussion will explore the dynamics of innovation among railway companies, industrial players, and start-ups, as well as open innovation models that drive the development of new technological solutions for smarter, more sustainable mobility. Contributors include representatives from:
- Introduction to Panel II – ONCF
- ERCI (Moderator)
- MTI Morocco Cluster (Mobility & Transport Innovation)
- UIC Digital Systems & Innovation
- EIT Urban Mobility
- ONCF (Morocco), Expert (Railway innovation)
WRAP-UP AND CONCLUSION: Closing remarks from representatives of ONCF and UIC.
Language : English and French