One of the four components of the Hassan II Mosque Foundation, the new Academy mirrors the Sovereign's insight into the overhauling of the craft industry and its trade associations.

 HM the King is continuously underlining the importance to lay the bases for the recognition of handicrafts as shows its royal message dated September 2001 to participants in Fez in a forum on the elaboration of an official report on the national craft industry.

 The facility, meant to provide training for executives and research in the field of traditional arts, will enable young apprentices to have access to new technologies and modern management methods.

 On this occasion, Islamic Affairs Minister and chairman of the Hassan II Mosque Foundation of Casablanca, Ahmed Toufiq, gave before the monarch a presentation on the mission and goals of the Academy, as well as its future prospects for the apprentices.

 The new facility, carried out in conformity with the royal instructions, will offer training for master craftsmen to acquire professional know-how and expertize in handicraft, art and production, Toufiq said, adding that the Academy will also provide technical assistance and counseling.

 Totaling 107 million dirhams, the Academy is unique for its creativity and authenticity, he added.

 Afterwards, HM the King visited the Academy's workshops (carved wood, tiles, plaster, calligraphy, tannery, weaving and jewelry) and the Hassan II Mosque's museum.

 The museum includes mainly a hall, areas for craft samples used in the mosque's construction as zellige (terracotta tile work), and a screening area to show the different stages of the mosque's building.