Ennahdha Movement Calls for English to Replace French as Primary Foreign Language in Algerian Education

Mohamed Douibi, Secretary-General of the Ennahdha movement, recently reiterated his party's position advocating for a continuous evaluation of Algeria's educational system. The movement proposed a significant shift in foreign language policy, suggesting that French should transition from its current primary foreign language status to being taught at the secondary education level. According to the party's proposal, French would be positioned alongside other foreign languages such as German, Italian, and Spanish within the curriculum. This stance shows Ennahdha's ongoing commitment to reassessing educational priorities in the country. Douibi's statements reinforce the party's long-held belief in the necessity of adapting the educational framework to modern demands.

Educational Reform Vision

Mohamed Douibi welcomed steps designed to remove linguistic barriers for Algerian competencies, stating they would enhance the country's openness to scientific research, knowledge, and international communication. Douibi emphasized that any educational reform must reflect the Algerian state's identity as established by the November 1st statement. He added that this vision includes establishing an authentic Algerian school rooted in its values and open to the world. The Ennahdha movement had previously conveyed its position on this matter by sending a letter to the President of the Republic, outlining its full vision for the education sector. This proactive engagement notes the party's dedication to influencing national policy through official channels.

Specific Language Proposals

The Ennahdha movement has proposed establishing English as the primary foreign language across all educational stages in Algeria. This move would position English at the forefront of language instruction from early education through higher learning. The party advocates for this shift, asserting that it would serve the best interests of Algerian students. According to the movement, the change is also intended to help students keep pace with the evolving demands of the contemporary era, fostering greater global connectivity and opportunities. The proposal suggests that French, while still important, should be moved to the secondary education level, aligning its status with other foreign languages like German, Italian, and Spanish. This re-prioritization aims to better equip Algerian youth for a globalized world.

Election Preparations and Dialogue Hopes

Mohamed Douibi presided over a meeting of the National Election Committee at the Ennahdha movement's national headquarters on Saturday. The gathering was dedicated to presenting and discussing evaluations of the recent legislative elections and preparing for upcoming local elections. The focus on both past performance and future strategy indicates a careful approach to electoral engagement. Douibi thanked citizens who voted for the movement's lists, along with members of the National Election Committee and party activists, acknowledging their key contributions. He emphasized the importance of continuing work with the same seriousness and spirit for the upcoming local elections, urging sustained effort and dedication from all members.

Douibi commented on the performance of the Independent National Electoral Authority (INAA), describing it as an achievement and a constitutional institution. He called for addressing shortcomings recorded during the legislative elections to ensure they are not repeated in the local elections, advocating for continuous improvement in electoral processes. Douibi also reviewed concerns raised by the movement during its interactions with citizens across the country during the past election campaign, demonstrating an attentiveness to public feedback. He expressed hope that the national dialogue with political parties, approved by President Tebboune, will be serious, sincere, and calm. Douibi further hoped the dialogue's outcomes would meet the priorities of the next phase, respond to citizens' concerns, and safeguard state sovereignty and political decision-making, aiming for tangible and impactful results from these discussions.