Algeria shifts to English in universities amid France tensions
Algeria has announced its decision to discontinue the use of French as the primary language of instruction at universities. This move is seen as a sign of growing distance from France and escalating tensions between the countries. The new rules are set to take effect from the new academic year.
Key information
- Algeria is introducing English as the language of instruction at universities.
- The decision is a response to political tensions with France.
- The change will take effect in September 2025.
Algeria, the third-largest French-speaking nation in North Africa, has decided to implement English as the main language of instruction at universities. This decision is the result of political tensions with France, which have been mounting since July 2024.
Algeria's Ministry of Higher Education announced that from September 2025, English will replace French at all universities. This change aims to free itself from French influence, which is particularly important in the context of recent political tensions.
Tensions between Algeria and France
Professor Bouraoui Seyfallah from the University of Science and Technology at Houari Boumediene emphasizes that the decision has both political and educational dimensions.
Honestly, it’s hard to separate politics from education in a context like this, especially when the two countries share such a deep and complex history - he explained in "University World News".
Tensions between Algeria and France intensified after France supported Morocco's claims to Western Sahara. Algeria, supporting the Polisario Front, responded by withdrawing its ambassador from France. Relations further deteriorated when Algeria demanded the departure of 12 employees from the French embassy.
