Ten university teams worked on open-source operating system

Algeria has launched its first home-made computer operating system that uses free and open-source software as part of a broader national strategy to modernise Algeria’s universities and position them as hubs for technological innovation.

Kamel Baddari, the minister of higher education and scientific research, said at the launch at Dr Moulay Tahar University in Saïda in November that the Linux-based system marks a milestone in the country’s digital modernisation efforts and in the enhancement of its technological capabilities.

“This fully fledged Algerian system is the outcome of collaborative work between students and software researchers from multiple universities. [The] Linux distribution … will enhance computer performance and safeguard our information systems,” Baddari said.

“It also lays the groundwork for an open technology economy by providing a strong foundation for the development of numerous software startups.”

Computer operation system

Speaking to Algerian TV channel Ennahar Plus, Aissa Aibeche, a professor of mathematics at Setif University and the head of the national committee for free and open-source software in the ministry, said: “Open-source software refers to computer software with a source code that is freely available to the public for use, modification and distribution.

“This type of software is typically developed by a community of developers who collaborate to improve and enhance its functionality,” Aibeche added.

“The open-source model encourages transparency, flexibility and innovation, making it a popular choice for individuals, organisations and governments worldwide.

“The operating system, designed to meet the demands for cybersecurity and efficiency, could play a pivotal role in the country’s digital transformation while showcasing the talents of our young researchers and entrepreneurs,” said Aibeche.

He said the development of the open-source software project, spearheaded by Dr Moulay Tahar University, involved a nationwide competition, with 10 university teams tasked with designing the operating system.

Economic significance

The launch of the Algerian operating system coincides with robust global growth in the open-source software market which, according to the October 2024 Open Source Software Market Global Report, is currently valued at US$41.8 billion and is projected to reach US$77.8 billion by 2028.

The growth of the open-source software market is driven by various factors. One of the main drivers is the cost advantage that open-source software offers, as it eliminates the need for costly licensing fees.

The ability to customise and tailor the software to specific needs, as well as the visibility and security advantages of community-driven development, along with the expanding scope of open-source projects across industries, have also contributed to its popularity, according to the report.

These figures underscore the economic significance of Algeria’s project to develop open-source software, which could strengthen the country’s position in the global open-source market, while also fostering local innovation.

Redirecting university research

Dr Hana Saada, a lecturer at the Algiers 1 University Benyoucef Benkhedda, told University World News: “The launch of Algeria’s first computer operating system is a commendable step, showcasing the country’s potential in technological innovation. It aligns well with the vision of directing university research toward practical applications that benefit both the economy and society.

“This initiative can inspire a stronger focus on local solutions to global challenges. However, challenges like the lack of industry-academia collaboration and bureaucratic hurdles often hinder such progress,” she noted.

She added that addressing these problems requires fostering partnerships between universities and industries, streamlining administrative processes, and increasing investment in research and development.

“Encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration and equipping researchers with advanced resources will further amplify impact. This milestone could be a beacon for sustainable innovation in Algeria,” said Saada.

Innovation capabilities

Algeria ranks 115th among the 133 economies featured in the Global Innovation Index (GII 2024), which ranks world economies according to their innovation capabilities.

Furthermore, Algeria ranks 76th in human capital and research, 94th in infrastructure, 95th in institutions, 109th in creative outputs and 125th in knowledge and technology outputs.

Algeria ranks 111th out of 154 countries in the Global Knowledge Index (GKI) 2021, which measures knowledge performance worldwide, using seven main sectoral indices, including higher education alongside research, development and innovation.