• Algeria launched the “77.7” digital empowerment program targeting citizens from ages 7 to 77.
• The initiative combines in-person and remote training through seven regional Skills Centers with an annual target of up to 30,000 learners.
• The program forms part of the broader “Digital Algeria 2030” strategy aimed at developing ICT skills and reducing youth unemployment.

The Algerian government announced last week the launch of a digital empowerment program called “77.7.” The initiative aims to train Algerian citizens across all age groups and provide digital skills needed to meet modern technological demands and support the country’s digital transformation agenda.

Sid Ali Zerrouki announced  the initiative on Saturday, May 17, during the World Telecommunication and Information Society Day.

The government is implementing the program in partnership with Algérie Télécom and Mobilis, while authorities plan to integrate additional partners in later phases

Authorities describe the “77.7” initiative as the country’s most comprehensive national digital-skills program.

The initiative targets seven distinct age groups through seven customized educational tracks.

The tracks range from “Technology Explorers” for children aged 7 to 10 to programs such as “Technology Layers,” “Innovators” and “Professional Technology” designed for youth and students.

The initiative also includes “Technology for Growth,” “Digital Empowerment” and “Technology Seniors” programs aimed at adults and elderly citizens up to age 77.

The training content follows a modular and progressive structure adapted to each age category, ranging from introductory digital literacy to advanced technology mastery.

Cybersecurity forms a mandatory component across all programs. The curriculum notably covers phishing prevention, online fraud awareness, disinformation risks and personal data protection.

Operationally, the initiative relies on a hybrid model combining in-person and remote learning. Seven Skills Centers located in the wilayas of Algiers, Oran, Annaba, Sétif, Chlef, Saïda and Adrar will support implementation. Each center can host around 1,000 learners annually. During the first year, the ministry expects to train between 25,000 and 30,000 citizens.

National Skills Development Strategy

The initiative forms part of broader efforts by Algerian authorities to strengthen digital skills development nationwide. The government said it wants to invest in human capital as an “essential foundation” for adapting to rapid technological changes.

Authorities have launched several related initiatives in recent months. In April 2026, Algiers launched a 12-week national artificial intelligence training program.

In May 2025, the government introduced the “Chabab Tech” program to train young people in cloud computing, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things.

Earlier that year, authorities had already begun deploying Skills Centers across the country.

These initiatives fall under the “Digital Algeria 2030” strategy, which identifies skills development as one of its five main pillars. The roadmap aims to train up to 500,000 ICT specialists and significantly reduce the emigration of qualified talent.

Authorities are also presenting the initiatives as a structural response to persistent unemployment, particularly among young people. According to the 2024 “Activity, Employment and Unemployment” survey by the National Statistics Office (ONS), Algeria’s overall unemployment rate reached 9.7%.

Meanwhile, the World Bank estimated youth unemployment at 29.4% in 2024, compared with 29.9% a year earlier.

Beyond employment prospects, the digital training initiatives also aim to accelerate adoption of digital services, strengthen digital inclusion and improve user protection in an increasingly connected environment.

This article was initially published in French by Isaac K. Kassouwi

 Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum