Discussion of the first PhD thesis on Amazigh culture and language in Algeria
The University of Batna, in eastern Algeria, celebrated yesterday, Tuesday, the discussion of the first doctoral dissertation in the Amazigh language, in a step that reflects the efforts made to promote the Amazigh culture in this Maghreb country, according to officials.
The research project dealt with the issue of "Tikleath", or the traditional communal warehouses that are widespread in the Aures region, one of the largest strongholds of the Chaoui Amazighs in Algeria.
Student Abdel Hamid Lounisi, the author of the thesis, said that the goal of choosing this topic is to "shed light on the heritage built in the Aures region, which is characterized by fortified castles, in order to introduce it, value it and preserve it as an important element in the tourism promotion of the region and contribute to local development as well as preserving collective memory."
The state of Batna includes many historical evidence and antiquities that indicate the ancient Amazigh presence in the region, including the tomb of King Imdgasen, which is located in the town of Boumia, west of the city.
According to the head of the Amazigh language and culture department at the University of Batna, Saleh Bayo, "There are 27 doctoral thesis projects dealing with Amazigh culture and language that are under preparation and will be discussed in the coming days," stressing that "the institute has not previously discussed any doctoral dissertation in the Amazigh specialization since 2014." ".
The issue of developing the Amazigh language and culture is receiving the attention of many scientific circles, especially after it was decided to upgrade it to an official language in the country in the 2016 constitution.
Recently, the High Governorate of Amazigh (an official institution) in Algeria announced the allocation of financial aid to all associations and researchers wishing to submit projects aimed at developing the Amazigh language and culture in this Maghreb country.
The "conservation" initiative came after a campaign of great criticism that it faced in recent years by political parties and activists defending the Amazigh cause in Algeria, against the backdrop of not generalizing the teaching of the Amazigh language in all regions of the country at a time when the "province" defends its activity, as it asserts that it has By "publishing more than 200 titles, in addition to providing financial aid to about 350 cultural and scientific societies."
Source : websites