Algeria recently held a ceremony to honor the winners of the first edition of the President's Prize for Literature and Amazigh Language. The event, which took place in Algiers, marked the 25th anniversary of the creation of the High Commission for Amazighity (HCA). The prize aims to promote Amazigh literature and language, with four categories: linguistics, scientific research, literature, and cultural heritage.
The jury, led by Youcef Nacib, reviewed 106 works and awarded prizes to the top three winners in three categories. Yacine Meziani, Toufik Djeroud, and Booukharroub Rachid took the top three spots in their respective categories. However, the first prize in the category of research on intangible Amazigh cultural heritage was not awarded, while Ali Hedjaz secured second place.
The ceremony, held at the International Conference Center, was attended by government members, the Mediator of the Republic, Karim Younes, presidential advisors, and representatives of various security agencies. Si El Hachemi Assad, Secretary General of the HCA, praised the President's efforts to support creativity and reflection on Amazigh literature and language. He noted that the prize, launched after a five-month call for contributions, was a "value added to the intellectual, cultural, and national scene."
Assad emphasized that the prize was a significant achievement, promoting a shared identity among Algerians and consolidating national constants. He stressed the importance of implementing a clear roadmap to promote Amazighity and distance national values from politicization. The prize, according to Assad, was a challenge successfully met by the HCA, demonstrating the Algerian state's interest in developing and promoting the Amazigh language.
A total of 220 participants from across the country took part in the first edition of the prize, with 106 works accepted for consideration. The jury, comprising professors and researchers specializing in Amazigh language and culture, worked for five months to select the winners.
On the sidelines of the ceremony, participants visited an exhibition showcasing posters, paintings, and products highlighting Algeria's historical sites and cultural heritage, celebrating Yennayer. The event demonstrated Algeria's commitment to preserving and promoting its cultural diversity.
The President's Prize for Literature and Amazigh Language is seen as a significant step towards promoting the Amazigh language and culture in Algeria. The HCA's efforts to encourage creativity and reflection on Amazigh literature and language have been widely praised, with the prize expected to contribute to the country's cultural and intellectual landscape.
Key points
- The prize aims to promote Amazigh literature and language in four categories.
- A total of 220 participants took part in the first edition of the prize.
- The ceremony marked the 25th anniversary of the creation of the High Commission for Amazighity.
