As part of the Erasmus+ Higher Education Reform Experts (HERE) activities, a Technical Assistance Mission (TAM) under the theme “Towards University 4.0” was organized on 19-20 october at the University of Ferhat Abbas – Sétif 1, in collaboration with the National Erasmus+ Office (NEO) in Algeria and the National Commission of University 4.0.
This two-day hybrid event brought together representatives from Algerian higher education institutions, national stakeholders, and international experts from Italy and the United Kingdom, offering a platform for reflection and exchange on the digital transformation of universities in Algeria.
Over the course of two days, participants explored the foundations, models, and challenges of the University 4.0 transition in Algeria through presentations, interactive sessions, and expert-led discussions.
Key Contributions from European Experts
Distinguished EU experts led a series of insightful sessions, sharing experiences and perspectives from Europe’s most advanced institutions:
Prof. Pierluigi Leone (Italy) – presented international best practices and conceptual models for University 4.0, emphasizing infrastructure, digital governance, and innovation.
Prof. Antonio Martinez-Arboleda (UK) – showcased creative uses of generative AI for educational purposes and its potential in higher education.
Dr. Elisa Negri (Italy) – discussed frameworks for evaluation, competency standards, and the challenges of implementing University 4.0 strategies.
Engaging National Stakeholders
The sessions also highlighted national efforts toward modernization. Members of the National Commission of University 4.0, led by Prof. Naoual Mami Abdelatif, presented the current status of the national strategy and the roadmap for implementation.
The Erasmus+ capacity building project “LEADS” was also presented by Prof. Abdelhalim Benachenhou, as part of the Erasmus+ contribution to promoting digital transformation and institutional innovation within Algerian higher education.
Round tables and discussions, facilitated by HERE members, enabled university leaders and experts from across Algeria to exchange views on digitalization, monitoring frameworks, and institutional transformation in the higher education sector.
Outcomes and Recommendations
The event concluded with a collaborative panel discussion dedicated to developing policy recommendations and a strategic framework for the modernization of institutional and pedagogical governance in the digital era.
This Technical Assistance Mission reaffirmed the strong partnership between Erasmus+ and Algerian higher education institutions, emphasizing a shared commitment to digital transformation and innovation. It marks an important step toward building a connected, resilient, and future-ready university system in Algeria.
A follow-up meeting will soon be organized to finalize and discuss the recommendations formulated during this Technical Assistance Mission.
