Algiers – The international qualifying rounds for the prestigious Algeria Prize for Quran Memorization and Recitation have commenced. Minister of Religious Affairs and Endowments, Youcef Belmahdi, inaugurated the 21st edition of the competition at the ministry headquarters yesterday, under the high patronage of the President of the Republic, Abdelmadjid Tebboune.
According to a statement from the Ministry, Minister Belmahdi emphasized the significance of holding this year’s event under the President’s patronage. He noted that the competition has attracted participants from 48 countries, including Algeria, with the possibility of reaching nearly 50 nations in the coming hours. This reflects the growing international recognition and stature of the Algeria Prize.
The international qualifying rounds are being conducted remotely through Algerian embassies, consulates general, and diplomatic missions abroad. An international jury, comprising four judges from Algeria, one from Syria, and one from Oman, will oversee the process.
The Minister highlighted that the competition provides a valuable platform for discovering new talents and exceptional reciters from both Algeria and abroad. It also showcases Algeria’s advanced level in serving the Holy Quran through its mosques, Quranic schools, religious institutions, and recitation centers.
He further stated that the Algerian state, under the guidance of President Tebboune, has continued to support the competition by introducing new categories and increasing the prize money, thereby strengthening its position and reinforcing the official commitment to honoring those who memorize the Book of Allah.
These international qualifying rounds will result in the selection of twenty contestants from various countries. They will be invited to Algeria to participate in the final stage of the international competition, which is held annually to commemorate the blessed occasion of Isra and Miraj, also under the high patronage of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.
