Algiers – The international qualifying rounds for the prestigious Algeria Prize for Quran Memorization and Recitation have commenced. The 21st edition of the competition, held under the high patronage of the President of the Republic, Abdelmadjid Tebboune, was officially inaugurated this evening by the Minister of Religious Affairs and Endowments, Dr. Youcef Belmahdi, at the ministry headquarters.
Dr. Belmahdi highlighted the significant international participation, noting that 48 countries, including Algeria, are taking part, with the potential for that number to rise to nearly 50 in the coming hours. He emphasized that this reflects the growing international stature of the prize and the increasing interest from various nations worldwide.
The international qualifying rounds are being conducted remotely through Algerian embassies, consulates general, and diplomatic missions abroad. A distinguished international jury panel, comprising four Algerian judges alongside one judge each from Syria and Oman, oversees the evaluation process, ensuring fairness and accuracy.
Dr. Belmahdi affirmed that the competition serves as a crucial platform for discovering new Quranic talents both within Algeria and internationally. It also showcases Algeria’s advanced level in serving the Holy Quran through its mosques, Quranic schools, Zawiyas, and recitation institutions spread across the country.
The Minister underscored the Algerian state’s continued support for the competition, guided by President Tebboune’s personal directives. This support includes introducing new categories and increasing the prize money, further enhancing its international standing and reinforcing official recognition of Quran memorizers and their encouragement.
The international qualifying rounds will narrow the field to twenty finalists. The final stage of the competition is scheduled to coincide with the commemoration of Isra and Miraj.
