On September 26, 2026, Algerian Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Kamal Baddari, launched the first meeting of the National Scientific Community Council. The council was established by presidential decree on September 7, 2026, as a high advisory body to the President of the Republic. Baddari emphasized that the council embodies President Abdelmadjid Tebboune's strategic vision for national development and reflects the state's intention to transition its relationship with Algerian expatriates from informal communication to institutional partnership.
The council aims to utilize the scientific and technological expertise of Algerian expatriates in national development. Baddari highlighted that these expatriates represent a vital part of Algeria's national human capital and can add value to various development paths. The council's primary tasks include providing scientific and technological advice to enhance the national economy and transition to a knowledge-based economy.
The council will focus on priority areas such as cybersecurity, energy security, healthcare, food security, and water security. Baddari stressed that Algeria views its expatriate scientists not as distant assets but as integral to the nation's human and scientific capital. The council's composition, featuring diverse specialties and expertise, is expected to link these expatriates with national development needs.
Professor Elias Zerahouni, coordinator of the National Scientific Community Council, stated that the council will mobilize Algerian scientific and technological expertise abroad to serve national priorities. The council will work closely with relevant ministries and sectors to identify priority areas and develop proposals in collaboration with domestic and international experts.
Zerahouni outlined a roadmap for the council's activities, including organizing specialized groups to address specific topics and preparing proposals in coordination with relevant sectors. The council aims to provide a structured framework for Algerian expatriates to contribute to national development. The initial phase will focus on establishing the council's structure and attracting additional Algerian expatriate scientists.
The council's work is expected to be voluntary, with members not receiving compensation for their contributions. Zerahouni emphasized that the council's goal is to provide an additional resource for Algeria's national system, not a replacement, by monitoring global scientific and technological developments and leveraging international experiences.
The launch of the National Scientific Community Council marks a significant step in Algeria's efforts to engage its expatriate community in national development. The council is expected to play a key role in driving the country's transition to a knowledge-based economy and addressing pressing national challenges.
Key points
- The National Scientific Community Council was established to utilize the expertise of Algerian expatriates in national development.
- The council will focus on priority areas such as cybersecurity, energy security, and healthcare.
- The council's work is expected to be voluntary, with members contributing their expertise without compensation.
