The University of Constantine 1, led by Professor El-Id Dehimat, recently held a consultative meeting with representatives from the administrative and pedagogical staff, as well as social partners and student organizations. The meeting aimed to discuss the implementation of a new instruction from the Ministry of Higher Education to extend study periods to 9 PM. This new measure seeks to optimize the use of pedagogical and scientific facilities, promoting a more dynamic academic environment.
The meeting brought together various stakeholders, including deputy deans, directors responsible for pedagogy, and representatives from the pedagogical directorate, university services, and student organizations. The discussion focused on the practical implementation of the new instruction, taking into account the needs and concerns of students and staff. The university aims to create a conducive environment for students to complete their projects, particularly in entrepreneurship, and for professors and researchers to utilize scientific facilities during evening hours.
As part of the new programming, several facilities will remain open until 9 PM, including central libraries, discussion rooms, teaching and lecture halls, digital spaces, computer rooms, entrepreneurship centers, business incubators, and research centers. This extended access to facilities is expected to benefit students and staff, promoting a more efficient use of resources. The new schedule will be implemented in phases, starting with universities located in major cities such as Algiers, Constantine, Oran, and Tlemcen.
The Ministry of Higher Education has instructed university directors to coordinate with student services and provide a list of students concerned by the new schedule, as well as their accommodation and transportation arrangements. The goal is to ensure a smooth transition to the new schedule, which will be divided into eight sessions from 8 AM to 9 PM, with one and a half hours per session. This new schedule is set to take effect from the 2026-2027 academic year.
Student representatives from the Free Student Organization at Constantine 1 University expressed concerns about the new schedule, citing issues related to transportation, security, and accommodation. They also raised concerns about the impact on students living in distant neighborhoods or outside the province. However, university officials reassured them that the decision will only affect a limited number of students and that flexibility will be offered to those who cannot attend evening sessions.
According to the university, the new schedule will only apply to students residing within Constantine province and will not affect those in the common trunk or at the Rassas campus. Students at the Rassas campus will be required to study at the Zarazara campus if they choose to do so. University officials have pledged to provide all necessary facilities and support to students concerned by the new schedule.
The extension of study periods to nighttime is part of a broader effort to enhance the academic experience and promote entrepreneurship among students. The Ministry of Higher Education aims to provide students with more opportunities to complete their projects and access scientific facilities, while also fostering a culture of innovation and creativity. The implementation of this new schedule will be closely monitored to ensure its success and address any concerns that may arise.
Key points
- The University of Constantine 1 is extending study periods to nighttime as part of a new instruction from the Ministry of Higher Education.
- The new schedule will be implemented in phases, starting with universities located in major cities.
- Student representatives have expressed concerns about the new schedule, citing issues related to transportation, security, and accommodation.
