Le Forum international des universités frontalières algéro-tunisiennes (5+5) à El Tarf
International Forum of Algerian-Tunisian Cross-Border Universities (5+5) Opens in El Tarf
The International Forum of Algerian-Tunisian Cross-Border Universities, known as the 5+5 Initiative, commenced on Monday at Chadli Bendjedid University in El Tarf. This year’s theme is "Perspectives for Cooperation for Better International Visibility."
This two-day scientific event gathers university directors, representatives from higher education institutions, and professors focused on academic rankings and the international visibility of universities from both countries.
In his opening address, Pr. Benchohra Choul, the director of El Tarf University, highlighted the forum’s significance in strengthening university and scientific cooperation. He emphasized that the forum aims to enhance university rankings, promote joint scientific publications, and develop international research projects.
Pr. Mohamed Manaâ, who coordinates the Algerian border universities and also serves as the director of Badji-Mokhtar University in Annaba, described the forum as a continuation of collaborative initiatives that began in November 2022. He reviewed significant outcomes of the cooperation between Algerian and Tunisian border universities, which include the signing of partnership agreements, organizing workshops and scientific forums, and launching the digital platform "Rawabet" (Connections).
He urged the advancement of joint training programs in critical areas such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and sustainable development. Furthermore, Pr. Manaâ emphasized the need to encourage collaborative scientific publishing and improve the rankings of the universities in major international classifications.
Dr. Hicham Sebaï, coordinator of Tunisian border universities and rector of Jendouba University, expressed his satisfaction with hosting the forum at El Tarf University, recognizing it as a vital platform for enhancing academic partnerships between Algerian and Tunisian institutions. Dr. Sebaï stated that the forum’s theme reflects both countries’ commitment to achieving better international visibility for their universities. He noted that border cooperation serves as a strategic lever for integrating into global scientific networks, praising successful joint initiatives such as student entrepreneurship workshops and bilateral scientific meetings.
Throughout the two days, the forum includes scientific debates and workshops aimed at formulating practical recommendations to boost academic cooperation and research, thereby enhancing the international presence of Algerian and Tunisian universities.
Participants in the forum include Chadli Bendjedid University (El Tarf), Badji Mokhtar University (Annaba), Mohamed Cherif Messaâdia University (Souk Ahras), Cheikh Larbi Tebessi University (Tebessa), and Martyr Hamma Lakhdar University (El Oued) from Algeria, along with Jendouba University, Gafsa University, Sousse University, Sfax University, and Kairouan University from Tunisia.
This collaborative effort not only seeks to enhance individual university rankings but also contributes to a broader strategy for regional integration within the global scientific community. Through shared expertise and resources, the Algerian and Tunisian universities aim to create a more robust and competitive academic presence on the international stage. By fostering connections through events like the 5+5 Forum, they are laying the groundwork for future collaborations that can have lasting impacts on education and research in both countries.
As discussions unfold and recommendations are discussed, the participants hope to pave the way for more ambitious projects that can address both local and global challenges, maximizing the potential of higher education as a tool for development and innovation. This initiative not only reflects a commitment to academia but also underscores the importance of collaboration across borders in a globalized world.
