On June 12, 2026, the University of Oxford, one of the world’s most prestigious academic institutions, hosted an exceptional historic event that brought together the richness of Algeria’s authentic heritage and the horizons of knowledge. The event was marked by the inauguration of the Emir Abdelkader Chair at the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies and the opening of the Algeria Hall, further strengthening Algeria’s academic and cultural presence within this prestigious international institution.
This initiative represents a significant milestone in promoting the legacy of Emir Abdelkader and highlighting his intellectual, humanitarian, and civilizational contributions in the fields of state-building, the dissemination of knowledge, and the promotion of intercultural dialogue.
The inauguration ceremony was presided over by the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Mr. Kamel Baddari, and the Rector of the Great Mosque of Algiers, Sheikh Maamoun El Kacimi, in the presence of a distinguished audience of academics, diplomats, and intellectuals.
This event reflects the commitment of the President of the Republic to preserving national memory, strengthening Algeria’s position on the map of global thought, and perpetuating the legacy of Emir Abdelkader, founder of the modern Algerian state, whom humanity recognizes as a symbol of wisdom, dignity, and tolerance.
The Emir Abdelkader Chair serves as a high-level research platform dedicated to Algeria’s civilizational heritage, while the “Algeria Hall” provides a space for cultural exchange and academic dialogue with leading centers of knowledge around the world.
In his address, Mr. Kamel Baddari emphasized that this event was not merely an academic activity but a historic moment that restores Algeria’s rightful place within the conscience of human civilization. He noted that the choice of Emir Abdelkader’s name reflects the values of knowledge, resistance, and tolerance that he embodied. Through this Chair, his intellectual legacy continues its journey toward global recognition. He stated: “We are not here merely to honor the past; we are laying the foundations for a future in which Algeria will be an active partner in shaping human civilization.”
For his part, Sheikh Maamoun El Kacimi stressed that “the establishment of this Chair adds a new chapter to the long history of interaction between Algeria and the United Kingdom, a relationship that has witnessed numerous political, scientific, and cultural exchanges over the centuries. Today, this interaction is renewed through knowledge-based partnerships that make scientific research a bridge bringing nations closer together.” He further added that “the vision pursued by Algeria today is based on strengthening its cultural and scientific presence on the international stage, and initiatives such as this one provide a practical embodiment of partnership founded on knowledge, dialogue, and cooperation among peoples.”