Souk Ahras Official Wins National Eclipse Photo Contest
The Algerian Ministry of Youth has awarded Abdelbasset Menadjlia from Souk Ahras for his photograph of the recent solar eclipse, which was chosen as the nation's best. Announced on Friday, August 14, the image captured at 7:22 PM in El Fehis, near Aïn Zana, garnered the most 'likes' and interactions in an online competition launched on the Ministry's official page. Mr. Menadjlia, who serves as head of the animation, communication, and associative life department at the Office of Youth Establishments (ODEJ) in Souk Ahras, received national recognition for his technically precise capture of the celestial event.
Beyond the photography competition, the Ministry of Youth orchestrated a national observation campaign in partnership with various associations, aimed at fostering scientific engagement among citizens. This initiative was launched in anticipation of the partial solar eclipse and saw remarkable public mobilization across several wilayas. A notable event took place at Sables d’Or beach in Zéralda, where astronomy clubs joined over 2,000 children from holiday and leisure centers for observation activities.
Youcef Kouratbi, a sub-director at the Ministry of Youth, highlighted that this scientific activity embodies a unified pedagogical project launched this year by the Ministry. Its purpose is to enhance scientific and technological skills, particularly among children. Participants were provided with professional equipment and observation telescopes, with strict adherence to visual safety guidelines. The eclipse itself offered a significant astronomical spectacle, with the solar disk obscuration reaching up to 97 percent in certain areas and 96 percent in Algiers, providing an ideal setting for both enthusiasts and photographers.
