Professor Lotfi Mouni, a renowned expert in process engineering, took the helm as rector of the Akli Mohand Oulhadj University of Bouira in late July. With a background as former dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Life Sciences, Mouni aims to harness the university's potential and address concerns raised by the academic community. In his first assessment, Mouni noted that the university is young and has considerable potential, with dedicated young staff and faculty.
The university has faced significant pedagogical delays due to last year's events. To mitigate this, Mouni's administration has implemented a comprehensive plan, engaging all stakeholders, including faculty deans and vice-rectors, to communicate effectively with students and encourage their participation in the new academic project. The goal is to ensure a smooth transition into the new academic year. Mouni emphasized that the university's two campuses have been made secure, with restricted access and enhanced safety measures.
Mouni highlighted the importance of hygiene within the university, stressing that a clean and healthy environment is crucial for students and staff to thrive. In addition to pedagogical programs, the university has launched a training program throughout the year, leveraging partnerships with various higher education institutions to support student and teacher development. This initiative aims to help bridge the knowledge gap and promote academic progress.
Certain faculties, such as the Faculty of Sciences and Applied Sciences, face significant backlogs, particularly in mathematics, computer science, and technology. Mouni reported that these departments are working to complete the previous academic year's calendar and are preparing for the new academic year. He has met with student representatives to discuss concerns and address problems, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach to resolving issues.
Mouni stressed that students have a shared responsibility to avoid disruptions and closures, which can lead to recurring pedagogical delays. To prevent such incidents, he plans to establish a dialogue framework between students and administration, ensuring prompt problem-solving. Furthermore, Mouni has scheduled a meeting with mathematics and computer science teachers to discuss the situation and outline his policy for avoiding similar scenarios in the future.
The university has witnessed recurring closures and blockages, which Mouni's administration has addressed firmly. Any unauthorized closures will now result in disciplinary action and potential judicial proceedings. As an example, a group of students who closed access to the Faculty of Law were recently sanctioned with a one-year suspension and face judicial procedures. Mouni emphasized that the law will be applied equally and rigorously to all.
The issue of inadequate security personnel has been addressed by reinforcing night staff with additional daytime personnel and implementing a control system within the university. Mouni's administration is committed to providing a secure environment, allowing students and staff to focus on their academic pursuits. With these measures in place, the university aims to make significant strides in the new academic year.
Key points
- The university has implemented enhanced security measures, including restricted access and increased personnel.
- A new training program has been launched to support student and teacher development.
- The administration is working to establish a dialogue framework between students and administration to prevent disruptions and closures.
