On December 12, 2023, the University of El Oued hosted the Third In-Person Meeting of Algerian-Tunisian Border Universities, part of the 5+5 Cooperation Agreement between the two nations. This significant event brought together university leaders and representatives from both Algeria and Tunisia to strengthen cross-border collaboration in education, research, and innovation.
Participants
The meeting was chaired by Professor Omar Ferahati, Rector of the University of El Oued and Coordinator of Algerian Universities. Participants included leaders from the universities of Souk Ahras, Tebessa, Annaba, and El Tarf, as well as their Tunisian counterparts from Gabes, Gafsa, Jendouba, Kairouan, and Sfax. Also present was Professor Habib Gadda, a member of the National Committee for International Twinning Agreements and Director of the Higher School of Saharan Agriculture.
Key Discussions and Outcomes
The meeting served as a platform to evaluate previously implemented bilateral programs and to outline future collaborative initiatives. Highlights include:
- Progress and Achievements
- Successful organization of international doctoral workshops and competitions.
- Activation of a digital platform to integrate researchers and laboratories, accompanied by virtual meetings for research heads.
- Future Plans
- The fourth in-person meeting is scheduled to take place at the University of Gafsa in April or May 2024.
- A campaign to enhance registration on the digital platform will be rolled out, with a two-step process for faculty and laboratory heads to complete profiles and gain approval from university administration.
- Proposed Collaborative Activities
- Joint Research Projects: Universities committed to initiating collaborative projects in areas such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and applied chemistry.
- Joint Conferences and Training Programs: Plans include interdisciplinary international conferences and specialized training sessions for writing and submitting international research proposals.
- Cultural and Sporting Events
- Organizing a table tennis festival at the University of El Tarf in March 2024.
- Hosting a half-marathon at the University of Souk Ahras in February 2024.
- Launching a student creativity festival at the University of Kairouan in April 2024.
Sustainability and Long-Term Goals
The participants emphasized the importance of:
- Establishing joint research laboratories (LABEX) for long-term collaboration.
- Promoting international accreditation and certification for partner universities.
- Expanding the 5+5 agreement to include Libyan universities, starting with the University of Sirte.
- Encouraging joint registration for doctoral students and fostering greater participation in cultural and sports activities.
