Moroccan researcher wins historic Silicon Valley Award for breast cancer detection innovation

Professor Hassan Ammor from Mohammed V University’s Mohammedia School of Engineers has secured the silver medal at the Silicon Valley International Invention Festival 2025,marking a historic achievement as the first such recognition for Morocco,Africa,and the Arab world in this prestigious competition.

The award,presented during the August 8-10 event in Santa Clara,California,recognizes Ammor’s groundbreaking innovation titled “A New Smart Microwave Imaging Scanner for Breast Cancer Detection.” The technology offers a lightweight,compact,non-invasive,and accessible medical device that represents a paradigm shift in early breast cancer detection methodologies.

The innovation addresses a critical healthcare challenge in Morocco,where approximately 59,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer annually. The device’s accessibility and non-invasive nature could significantly improve early detection rates,particularly in underserved communities where traditional screening methods remain limited.

Invited by the International Federation of Inventors’ Associations (IFIA) and OFEED Morocco,Professor Ammor presented his innovation to an international audience of experts and investors at one of the world’s premier innovation gatherings. The SVIIF brings together inventors,entrepreneurs,and venture capitalists to showcase transformative technologies with global impact potential.

“Winning this medal in Silicon Valley represents immense honor and pride for our team,university,and nation. It demonstrates Morocco’s capability to compete with leading innovation powerhouses,” Ammor stated following the award ceremony.

The professor emphasized that this recognition validates Mohammed V University’s capacity to transform scientific research into practical societal solutions. He expressed optimism about rapid commercialization prospects while calling for increased governmental support to help researchers valorize their inventions.

This achievement positions Morocco prominently within the global innovation ecosystem and highlights the country’s growing research capabilities in addressing critical healthcare challenges through technological advancement.