AI Research Catalyst Workshop:

“AI Insights, AI Horizon: Research and Innovation”

May 5–7, 2025 | CRAT Research Center, Constantine, Algeria

The AI Research Catalyst Workshop, held from May 5th to 7th, 2025, at the CRAT Research Center , was a landmark event focused on exploring the perspectives, applications, and challenges of artificial intelligence (AI) in the context of scientific research in Algeria.

Day 1: Keynote Presentations & Workshop Launch

The event was officially opened by Prof. Chouaki BENABBAS, Director of CRAT, in the presence of esteemed guests including:

• The Director of the CRBT Research Center
• The Director of the CRM Research Center
• The Rector of the University of Boumerdes

The highlight of the first day was the keynote session featuring two renowned Algerian researchers from the diaspora, internationally recognized for their contributions to AI:

• Dr. Salim Bouguermouh presented the first conference titled:
  “AI Horizons: Exploring the Future of Intelligent Systems”
• Dr. M.B. Senouci followed with the second conference :
  “Getting Started with AI: Foundations & Concepts”

The session concluded with a dynamic and insightful debate involving researchers from five national research centers and five universities. The discussion reflected the growing enthusiasm and scientific curiosity around AI, and was covered by national media outlets.

The afternoon session marked the official launch of the thematic training workshops, led by the two keynote speakers.

Days 2 & 3: Hands-On Workshops and Knowledge Exchange

The second and third days were entirely devoted to practical, thematic workshops. Participants tackled real-world scientific challenges using advanced AI techniques, focusing on:

• Data Science
• Machine Learning
• Deep Learning
• Applied AI in Research Contexts

These sessions provided researchers and students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, enhance their technical skills, and explore new avenues for integrating AI into their research.

Closing Ceremony: Collaboration and Vision

The workshop concluded with a closing ceremony, centered on fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among Algerian researchers. Key themes discussed included:

• Establishing long-term partnerships between research centers and universities
• Overcoming challenges such as funding limitations, infrastructure gaps, and skill development
• Building a coherent national strategy for AI research and innovation

Participants emphasized the transformative potential of AI for Algeria’s scientific, educational, and economic development.

The event concluded with a certificate distribution ceremony, celebrating the participants’ engagement and achievements over the three-day workshop, and reinforcing the spirit of innovation and collaboration that the event successfully cultivated.