Décès de l’essayiste El Djouher Amhis Ouksel à l’âge de 97 ans
El Djouher Amhis Ouksel: A Tribute to a Literary Pioneer
El Djouher Amhis Ouksel, the renowned Algerian essayist, writer, and educator, passed away on Thursday at her home in Algiers at the age of 97. This remarkable woman, born in 1928 in the village of Ath Yenni in Tizi Ouzou, leaves behind a rich legacy marked by her unique contributions to education and the cultural heritage of Algeria.
A Life Devoted to Education and Literature
El Djouher’s journey was distinguished by her commitment to the field of education. With a teaching career spanning nearly a decade, she rose through the ranks, earning the position of national education inspector in 1968. Her dedication to education did not wane upon retirement in 1983. Instead, she focused entirely on writing and promoting reading among the youth, aiming to make significant literary works accessible to younger generations.
Throughout her life, El Djouher published numerous works, including a notable series called "Lectures." In these books, she provided substantial summaries of major literary works by esteemed Algerian authors, using a literary style designed to inspire young readers to explore the original texts. Her expertise and passion for Algerian literature led her to introduce youth to the writings of prominent figures like Assia Djebar, Taos Amrouche, and Mohamed Dib, among others.
Cultural Impact and Recognition
El Djouher’s contributions were not limited to her literary publications. As a passionate advocate for Algeria’s cultural richness, she actively worked to enrich the national literary landscape. Her impact extended beyond the classroom and into the broader cultural community, where she was celebrated for her role as a pedagogue and cultural influencer.
Her life and work were commemorated in various ways, including a 2016 documentary titled "El Djouher Amhis, une femme d’exception" and a 2018 music video tribute called "El Djouher," crafted by the multifaceted artist Rachid Rezagui. These honors reflect the deep admiration held for her within both literary and artistic circles.
A Final Homage
The local community plans to honor El Djouher posthumously in her hometown of Ath Yenni. At the end of 2024, elected officials, fellow writers, poets, and cultural representatives, such as members of the "Amis de la Rampe Louni-Arezki" association from the Casbah of Algiers, will gather to pay tribute to her legacy.
Her burial is scheduled for Friday, coinciding with the first day of Aid El Adha, at the Sidi Yahia cemetery in Algiers, following the El Asr prayer.
El Djouher Amhis Ouksel’s passing signifies the loss of an exceptional figure in Algerian literature and education. Her lifetime of dedicated service to enriching Algeria’s cultural fabric and advancing literary appreciation among youth solidifies her legacy as a pioneering educator and beloved writer.
