Algerian Radio
The Rector of Djamaâ El-Djazaïr (Great Mosque of Algiers), Sheikh Mohamed El Mamoun Al Kacimi Al Hassani, emphasized following the launching ceremony of the Emir Abdelkader Chair at the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies that this scientific project represents a qualitative step forward in enhancing the Algerian presence within the international academic sphere, and embodies the transition of Emir Abdelkader's legacy from the realm of national memory into global scientific research.
The Rector's statement was delivered from the "Algiers Hall," which was inaugurated for the occasion inside the center. He chose to give his address in front of an artistic mural crafted from authentic Algerian Zellige, in a scene that combined the symbolism of the location with the depth of the civilized message that Algeria brings to the world through its ancient intellectual and cultural heritage.
Mr. Al Kacimi explained that launching this academic chair does not merely represent the signing of an academic cooperation agreement, but rather establishes a new phase for introducing the Algerian contribution to human civilization through the figure of Emir Abdelkader, whose influence has transcended national borders to become one of the reference figures in the fields of thought, dialogue, and human coexistence.
He pointed out that choosing the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies to host this project carries special scientific and cultural significance, given the international status the center enjoys and its role as a venue where researchers and thinkers from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds meet, thereby opening new horizons for studying Emir Abdelkader's thought and highlighting its human and civilized dimensions.
He also considered that the inauguration of the "Algiers Hall" within this prestigious scientific edifice represents a highly important symbolic achievement, as it makes Algeria's name permanently present in one of the world's most prominent specialized academic institutions, and embodies the depth of cultural and scientific relations connecting Algeria with the United Kingdom.
In this context, he emphasized that the new academic chair should be viewed as a long-term investment in knowledge and scientific research production rather than merely a celebration of a historical memory. He stressed that the project will provide a space to mentor researchers and students, and to carry out specialized scientific studies on Emir Abdelkader’s thought and his intellectual and humanitarian legacy.
Sheikh Al Kacimi expressed his aspiration for the chair to transform into a permanent platform for cooperation between Algerian universities and research centers and their British and international counterparts, thereby contributing to the promotion of intercultural dialogue and highlighting the true image of Algeria as a country with a civilized and intellectual heritage extending deep into history.
He also commended the support this project received from the highest authorities in the country, led by the President of the Republic, Mr. Abdelmadjid Tebboune, praising the state's sponsorship of scientific and cultural initiatives aimed at enhancing Algeria's standing on the international stage. At the same time, he lauded the fruitful cooperation with the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies and all the partners who contributed to the success of this project.
The Rector of Djamaâ El-Djazaïr, Sheikh Mohamed El Mamoun Al Kacimi Al Hassani, concluded by emphasizing that what has been achieved in Oxford is not the end of a path, but rather its beginning. He expressed his confidence that Emir Abdelkader's thought will find a broad space for research, study, and dialogue within one of the most important scientific hubs in the world, thereby serving human knowledge and strengthening bridges of understanding between nations.
