Within the framework of the national strategy for the modernization of higher education, His Excellency the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Mr. Kamal Badari, conducted a working and inspection visit to the University of Tlemcen on May 14, 2026. This mission aimed to assess the academic infrastructure and review the institution's innovation dynamics, particularly regarding support for scientific research and the development of the startup ecosystem. The itinerary included the inauguration of a dedicated facility for people with disabilities at the Central Library of the new Mansourah university campus, demonstrating the institution's commitment to inclusion and equal opportunity.

On the sidelines of the visit, a consultation session was held at the Central Library, bringing together the Minister, local authorities, sector executives and relevant partners, and the university community. During this meeting, the University Rector, Professor Mourad Maghachou, outlined the progress made in enhancing educational quality, promoting research, and fostering an entrepreneurial culture, emphasizing the university's integration with its environment. The Wali reiterated the strategic importance placed by public authorities on higher education as a driver of local development and human capital qualification.

In his keynote address, the Minister emphasized the imperative of aligning scientific research outcomes with socio-economic needs. He stated that the transition to a "Fourth-Generation University" model is an essential strategic choice, aimed at building an innovative, digitized institution capable of leveraging knowledge as a catalyst for economic development.

The visit culminated in the signing of strategic partnership agreements between the university and economic stakeholders, notably agreements between the University of Tlemcen's business incubator and e-commerce startups such as "SOFIZPAY". These agreements are designed to institutionalize university-industry collaboration and facilitate the commercialization of research projects. The event also featured an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding students, thereby promoting academic excellence.

This visit reflects the structural transformation of the University of Tlemcen, reinforcing its position as a center of excellence and an innovation hub. It underscores the evolution of the Algerian university from a traditional educational model to an interactive environment that generates added value in support of comprehensive development.