ALGIERS – Individuals enrolled in Algeria’s University of Continuing Education (UCE) are not eligible to receive the national unemployment benefit, according to a recent statement from the Ministry of Labour, Employment, and Social Security.
The Minister of Labour, Abdelhak Saihi, clarified the eligibility criteria in response to a parliamentary inquiry. He emphasized that the unemployment benefit program is designed to support first-time job seekers and provide assistance during their job search, reinforcing the government’s social policy aimed at combating unemployment.
The program operates under Executive Decree No. 22-70, dated February 10, 2022, which outlines the terms and conditions for receiving the benefit, including the amount and the obligations of beneficiaries. This decree has been subject to subsequent amendments and additions.
Key among the eligibility requirements, as stipulated in Article 2 of the decree, is that beneficiaries must not be registered in an institution of higher education or vocational training. This explicitly excludes students at the University of Continuing Education.
The response further states that recipients of the unemployment benefit are required to sign a pledge acknowledging all conditions, including the prohibition of being a student in higher education or undergoing vocational training. They are also obligated to inform the local employment agency of any changes in their social or professional status while receiving the benefit.
The Ministry’s statement highlights that the unemployment benefit program is subject to regular monitoring through data cross-referencing with various administrative bodies. This ensures the program’s effectiveness and maintains its intended purpose, according to the Minister.
