Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Kamal Baddari, chaired a coordination meeting that outlined a joint action plan to enhance technological sovereignty and expand the use of artificial intelligence in public services. Representatives of various ministries and national bodies attended the meeting, which was described as the first of its kind. During this key gathering, strategic objectives were defined, leading to the approval of a new roadmap. The roadmap specifically focuses on developing sovereign, open-source governmental artificial intelligence models. This initiative marks a significant step towards integrating advanced AI solutions into national infrastructure, according to attendees, aiming to bolster national capabilities and reduce reliance on external technologies.
Key Initiatives and Objectives
The approved roadmap outlines several key initiatives, designed to foster a strong national AI ecosystem. These include the provision of supercomputing capabilities through dedicated computing centers. These advanced facilities aim to enable research centers and startups to train smart models locally, ensuring that advanced AI development can occur within national borders. A core component of the plan also prioritizes human capital development and skills enhancement. To achieve this, intensive, updated training programs are set to be launched. These programs will operate in close partnership with universities and research institutions, aiming to qualify national competencies in critical areas such as data analysis and generative artificial intelligence. This focus on education and training is intended to build a skilled workforce capable of driving AI innovation.
Further initiatives involve the establishment of a scientific research center and specialized research units, which will serve as hubs for advanced AI exploration and development. The roadmap will also facilitate the key transition from academic research to industrial application, ensuring that scientific breakthroughs translate into practical, tangible benefits for the nation. Administrative and public data processing and storage will be handled exclusively within secure national data centers. This measure shows the commitment to data sovereignty and security. Throughout these full efforts, a strong emphasis is placed on the ethical and reliable use of modern technologies, ensuring that AI development aligns with national values and standards.
Implementation and Oversight
To ensure the effective execution of this ambitious plan, a joint follow-up committee has been established. This committee's formation signals a structured approach to monitoring the implementation of the recently approved roadmap for sovereign AI development. Its mandate includes overseeing progress in critical areas such as supercomputing provision, human capital development, and the establishment of new research centers and units. This strong oversight mechanism aims to facilitate the transition from academic research to industrial application, thereby bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical deployment, while simultaneously ensuring secure national data processing and storage. The committee will also track the ethical and reliable deployment of modern technologies as the roadmap progresses, upholding the principles of responsible AI development. This structured approach is designed to ensure the successful realization of the nation's AI sovereignty goals.
University Registration Underway
Separately, but also discussed during the meeting where strategic objectives were defined, representatives of various ministries and national bodies noted ongoing national initiatives. Final university registration for holders of the 2026 Baccalaureate certificate began at midnight on Wednesday, August 5, 2026. This electronic and paperless registration process will continue until August 10, providing a streamlined experience for new students. Students complete their registration and pay fees to receive a virtual card on their smartphone. Registration fees must be paid exclusively using the 'Golden Card', a system designed for secure and efficient transactions. The virtual card enables new university students to access various university electronic services and platforms, marking a step towards digital integration in higher education.