From December 3 to 5, 2026, Rabat (Morocco) will host the International Francophone Surgery Conference (RICF 26) at Mohammed VI University of Science and Health (UM6SS). Held under the High Patronage of His Majesty Mohammed VI and Mr Emmanuel Macron, this event represents a wonderful opportunity for Strasbourg’s medical community to share knowledge and raise its profile.
The Mohammed VI Foundation for Science and Health (FM6SS), a future partner of the IHU Strasbourg, was inaugurated by His Majesty King Mohammed VI. Photo credit: Maghreb Arabe Presse (MAP)
A United Strasbourg Team
Led by Prof. Albert-Claude Benhamou (president of IHU Strasbourg), a large delegation from Strasbourg will travel to the site. This group exemplifies the strength of the collaboration between the University of Strasbourg (UNISTRA), the Strasbourg University Hospitals (HUS), and IHU Strasbourg.
Institutional Leadership and Technology Transfer
Beyond clinical advances, RICF 26 will address major economic issues in healthcare. In particular, Prof. Albert-Claude Benhamou will moderate a highly anticipated strategic discussion with health authorities and industry representatives on the topic: “How can we facilitate MedTech transfers within the Francophone economic community?”
Technological and Clinical Innovation at the Heart of the Discussions
The scientific program will highlight the interdisciplinary nature and richness of research in Strasbourg through several key events:
- Artificial Intelligence and Imaging: Prof. Christian Debry (Executive Director of the IHU) will speak on the benefits of AI in surgical practices.
- Augmented Reality: Jean-Luc Dimarcq (former Director of Development at the IHU) will present the latest research on soft tissues.
- Medical Robotics: Prof. Nicolas Padoy (Scientific Director and Director of Research in Computer Science and AI at the IHU) and Prof. Michel de Mathelin (Director of Innovation at the IHU) will explore the connections between robotics and AI. In ENT, Prof. Christian Debry and Prof. François Simon will present the capabilities of the RobOtol® for cochlear implant surgery.
- Biosurgery and Clinical Expertise: Leading experts from our ecosystem will share their latest innovations, including presentations by Prof. Jean Sibilia on interventional rheumatology and Prof. Carole Mathelin on senology.
Diplomatic and Humanitarian Impact
Strasbourg’s influence will also extend to international public health initiatives. Prof. Christian Debry will moderate a session dedicated to the “NASMAA National Cochlear Implant Program Expanded to Africa.”
A Long-Term Partnership Between Rabat and Strasbourg
The highlight of this visit will take place on Saturday, December 5, with the official signing of an international partnership agreement between “Rabat and Strasbourg.” This five-year agreement will link the Mohammed VI Foundation for Science and Health (FM6SS) with the University of Strasbourg (UNISTRA), the Strasbourg University Hospitals (HUS), and IHU Strasbourg. It will enable the launch of new joint research programs, the organization of joint training initiatives, and the facilitation of student and researcher exchanges between our two countries.
Check out the full program of our presentations at RICF 26 (in French)
