SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

16.2.1. Elected representation

At the University of Souk Ahras, there is a directorate council with appointed members and elected members from students, professors and employees.

Various departments at Mohamed Chérif Messaadia University of Souk Ahras—including those responsible for pedagogy, scientific, cultural, and sports activities, as well as innovation support and senior administrative bodies—regularly hold meetings with student representatives. These sessions aim to listen to student concerns, foster dialogue, and encourage the exchange of ideas to enhance academic life and institutional responsiveness.

Proof

16.2.2. Students’ union

In Algeria, a National Union of Algerian Students operates as an inclusive platform open to all students from every university across the country, without exception. Through this union, students are empowered to engage in a wide range of activities both within university campuses and in broader societal contexts, fostering civic participation, institutional dialogue, and youth-led initiatives.

Proof

16.2.3. Identify and engage with local stakeholders

Since its establishment, University of Souk Ahras has maintained a proactive policy of identifying and engaging with local stakeholders. Through collaborative initiatives, the university actively contributes to advancing sustainable development within the local community, reinforcing its role as a catalyst for regional progress and inclusive growth.

Policy created: (1998)

Proof

16.2.4. Participatory bodies for stakeholder engagement

Local stakeholders including community members, local government, and civil society representatives are actively encouraged to participate in the university’s decision-making processes. This is facilitated through the submission of formal recommendations to the university administration, aimed at promoting collaborative action and strengthening joint efforts across a range of issues and development projects.

Proof

16.2.5. University principles on corruption and bribery

The University of Souk Ahras worked to disseminate the university’s principles and obligations regarding corruption and bribery through the Professional Ethics Committee.

Proof

16.2.6. Academic freedom policy

Since its founding, the University of Souk Ahras granted academic freedom to senior and junior academics and the freedom to teach them, and this is guaranteed recently  by the University’s Charter of Deontology and Ethics .

NB: See section 1.1 in page 4

Policy created: (2021)

Policy reviewed: (2023)

Proof

16.2.7. Publish financial data

The University of Souk Ahras publishes some financial data  such as total University expenditure, University expenditure for sustainability, and University expenditure on arts and heritage, …, etc
NB: See Section 11.3.1 and 11.3.2

Proof

16.3.1. Provide expert advice to government

In 2024, the University of Souk Ahras sought to provide technical assistance, expertise, and legal services to local and regional governments. It entered into agreements with the Administrative Court of Souk Ahras and the Bar Association of Annaba.

Proof

16.3.2. Policy- and lawmakers outreach and education

In alignment with local and national agreements established with its socio-economic partners, the University of Souk Ahras actively contributes to public education, awareness-raising, and capacity building. The university provides targeted support and skills development programs for policymakers and legislators on key thematic areas such as economics, law, technology, migration and displacement, and climate change reinforcing its role as a driver of informed governance and sustainable development.

Proof

16.3.3. Participation in government research

The University of Souk Ahras conducts policy-focused research in collaboration with governmental departments through joint research initiatives. As part of this effort, the governmental departments offer short-term internships for students involved in these projects, fostering experiential learning and strengthening the link between academic research and public policy development.

Proof

16.3.4. Neutral platform to discuss issues

Organized by University of Souk Ahras University-Enterprise Liaison Office, the second edition of the Business Café was held on March 7th, 2024, at the Central Library. The event gathered university leaders, researchers, innovation centers, economic partners, and international academic contributors from Tunisia and Russia to discuss energy, environmental, and water security in Algeria.

Key outcomes included expert presentations, stakeholder dialogue, and strategic recommendations to:

  • Strengthen university–industry collaboration.
  • Activate joint committees and foresight units.
  • Align research themes with graduate training.
  • Promote eco-innovation and research commercialization.

Proof

Number of graduates: 3161

Number of total graduates from law and enforcement related courses: 528