What You Need to Know
• Algeria’s Education Minister Mohamed Seghir Saadaoui announced English will be the sole foreign language for third graders starting in 2026-2027.
• French will be moved to the fourth year, marking a significant shift in Algeria’s language education policy.
• This change is part of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s broader linguistic reform, which began in 2022.
On July 25, 2023, Algeria’s Education Minister Mohamed Seghir Saadaoui announced that English will become the only foreign language taught in the third year of primary school starting in the 2026-2027 academic year. This decision will push French to the fourth year, effectively ending its long-standing dominance in foreign language education in Algeria. Beginning next month, eight-year-olds will be the first to learn English before French, a move praised by retired English teacher Ahmed Krim, who emphasized the need for proper planning and resources. This initiative is part of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s linguistic overhaul, which includes transitioning medical and scientific faculties from French to English, and removing French from various public documents. The shift comes amid heightened diplomatic tensions between Algeria and France, exacerbated by France’s support for Morocco’s claims over Western Sahara.
Why It Matters
This decision reflects a significant cultural and educational shift in Algeria, where French has historically been the dominant foreign language since colonial times. The move to prioritize English aligns with Algeria’s efforts to modernize its education system and improve global competitiveness. The context of deteriorating diplomatic relations with France, particularly following France’s stance on Western Sahara, further underscores the urgency of this linguistic transition. By adopting English, Algeria aims to redefine its identity and foster a more diverse linguistic environment in its educational institutions.
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