The Algerian government is reinforcing its commitment to children with special needs through a national strategy aimed at guaranteeing their right to education and rehabilitation within specialized institutions equipped with the latest pedagogical and therapeutic tools. Oran province has emerged as a model in implementing this national policy, successfully integrating around 2025 children with special needs into the educational system during the 2026-2027 academic year.
According to Omar Ben Sahala, head of the disabled services at the Oran province social activity and solidarity department, children with special needs hold a significant place in society, reflecting the directives of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who prioritizes providing suitable conditions for their integration into the educational and social systems. The new academic year has been marked by the official opening of a specialized center for children with autism spectrum disorder in the Belgaida area.
The newly opened center in Belgaida has a capacity for over 75 children and features pedagogical and therapeutic spaces, as well as areas for sports and entertainment, alongside advanced equipment to support rehabilitation paths. This brings a comprehensive educational experience and suitable conditions for this group. Furthermore, Oran is preparing to launch a project for a larger national center for children with autism spectrum disorder in the Sabah neighborhood.
This initiative, carried out by the Tosiāli steel and iron company in coordination with public authorities, is the first of its kind nationally in terms of size and objectives, making it a pioneering step in social care. It reflects a shared will to provide advanced infrastructure that meets the requirements of specialized education and treatment. Oran's efforts have earned it a prominent status in this field.
The progress on the new center has exceeded 65%, and it is set to open once the work is completed and the complementary executive decree is issued. The center will be part of a network of national and regional centers, and Oran benefits from a significant position due to its large capacity, reinforcing its leading status nationally.
The designed institutions are based on modern international standards in caring for children with autism, reflecting a comprehensive vision that combines education and treatment within an integrated framework that ensures service quality and enhances the independence of beneficiaries. Plans are underway to expand the network of specialized structures.
Another center, a psychological and educational center for children with special needs and intellectual disabilities, is expected to open soon in the eastern part of the province. Additionally, a new annex for intellectual disability care is being planned within the Ahmed Zabana pole in the M'serguine area, highlighting efforts to bring services closer to families in large residential areas.
Key points
- Algeria's Oran province has integrated around 2025 children with special needs into the educational system.
- A new specialized center for children with autism spectrum disorder has been opened in Belgaida.
- Oran is set to launch a larger national center for children with autism spectrum disorder.
