National AI Strategy Progresses on Data, Finance, and Education
Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Kamal Beddari, presided over the fifth multisectoral meeting dedicated to monitoring the implementation of Algeria's National Artificial Intelligence Strategy on 20 October 2026 in Algiers. The meeting reviewed the progress made by thematic committees established around the strategy's core pillars, showcasing the nation's commitment to advancing artificial intelligence capabilities.
The Data and Infrastructure Committee presented key outlines of its implementation plan, including a Gantt chart for data governance and the acquisition of necessary infrastructure. Concurrently, the Finance Committee finalized preliminary estimates for public funding allocated to infrastructure acquisition. This committee also continued coordination with representatives of economic companies, following a meeting on 19 October 2026, to develop a joint funding mechanism. Furthermore, tasks were distributed among responsible parties, including representatives of the General Directorate of Taxes, for developing a specialized language model focused on Algerian tax legislation, with all required equipment provided for completion within four months.
Educational advancements were highlighted by the Doctoral Committee, which presented the structural framework for a national doctoral school encompassing all fields related to artificial intelligence. This framework also includes thematic doctoral schools designed for priority economic sectors such as health, energy, water resources, transport, agriculture, and public administration. A competition for admission to a doctoral program, offering 102 positions across three national computer science schools in Algiers, Bejaia, and Sidi Bel Abbes, is scheduled for an imminent announcement.
Ongoing coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs aims to leverage international initiatives in artificial intelligence and its applications, further integrating Algeria into the global AI landscape. Additionally, the meeting saw the presentation of a draft executive decree outlining the National Research Program for artificial intelligence, underscoring a comprehensive approach to fostering innovation and research within the field. (Reporting by Omar Tadrist.)
