Algeria has established the High Council of the National Scientific Community Abroad to integrate the expertise of its overseas diaspora into national development. Formally instituted via a September 7, 2026 decree, the advisory body reports directly to the presidency to help transition the country toward a knowledge-based economy.
The new council represents a formal effort to bridge the gap between Algerian researchers living overseas and the domestic academic and industrial sectors.
Council Composition and Presidential Oversight
The council consists of 39 members appointed by presidential decree for three-year terms, which may be renewed once. The president retains the authority to terminate these functions by decree.
- 30 seats for diaspora scientists selected based on their international reputation and strategic specialties.
- 6 seats for representatives from various national ministries to maintain a direct link with the administration.
- 3 seats for Algerian business leaders operating abroad to connect scientific research with innovation and entrepreneurship.
While the institution receives public funding through state subsidies, local government grants, and donations to cover operational costs and personnel, the decree specifies that serving as a member of the council is an unpaid, voluntary contribution.
Strategic Expertise in Medicine, AI, and Energy
The council brings together a diverse array of specializations. Alquds reports that the body includes 27 researchers and scientists active in fields such as artificial intelligence, materials science, energy, mathematics, biophysics, molecular biology, and signal processing.
Among the prominent members are Elias Zerhouni, a biomedical engineering specialist and former director of the U.S. Other specialists include Kamal Youcef-Toumi in mechanical engineering and robotics, Belgacem Haba in materials science and electronics, and Karim Zgheib in materials science and energy storage. The group also includes Lidia Boudouiba, specializing in mathematics and biophysics, and Malika Ait Boudris in molecular biology.
Knowledge Transfer and National Development Goals
The primary mission of the council is to mobilize the skills of the national community abroad to serve national projects and the development of research. This involves formulating scientific and technological opinions on development axes and proposing sustainable mechanisms to link overseas researchers with the national higher education system.
This structure is intended to move beyond simple consultation. According to Alquds, the challenge for the body will be converting its advisory role into executable projects, particularly through technology transfer, joint projects, and the training of students and researchers within Algeria.
We possess the capacities for this, and our country is ready for this stage.
Elias Zerhouni, Council Coordinator, via Lnr Dz
Presidential Integration of Scientific Talent
President Abdelmadjid Tebboune recently met with the council members, alongside officials from the ministries of health, industry, pharmaceutical industry, and higher education. During this meeting, members presented proposals for programs aimed at national development.
The members expressed support for the initiative, viewing it as a way to synchronize the efforts of scientists inside and outside the country. Belgacem Haba described the council as a space to reinforce contacts and develop new programs across various sectors, while Kamal Youcef-Toumi noted the initiative’s goal to serve Algeria and strengthen its development process.
Operationalizing the Advisory Framework
The council’s immediate roadmap includes strategic monitoring of emerging technologies and the exchange of experiences to evolve the national higher education system. To maintain flexibility, the body is permitted to solicit any person or entity it deems useful for its specific assignments.
