New Delhi- President Droupadi Murmu, on a three-nation tour, received an Honorary Doctorate in Political Science from Sidi Abdellah Science and Technology Pole University in Algiers on October 14, 2024. The conferment ceremony took place at Sidi Abdellah Science and Technology Pole University.

President Murmu expressed gratitude for the honor, stating, "It is indeed a humbling experience for me to be honoured with the Honorary Doctorate. This is an honour for my country more than for me as an individual."

She also emphasized the importance of engaging with students, noting, "It is always a pleasure to address young minds in the universities brimming with confidence dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge that directly impacts national development missions."

President Murmu received the Doctorate from Kamal Baddari, Algeria's Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research.

Murmu emphasized India's commitment to affordable quality education, especially for students from Africa, including Algeria, during her university address. She said, "We also offer several scholarships and fellowships to African students. I invite educational institutions, governmental departments, and youth of Algeria to take advantage of various initiatives of the Government of India."

Murmu emphasized the role of education in reducing inequalities and promoting equal opportunities. She urged Algerian students and officials to participate in India's ITEC program and other scholarship offerings, citing the success of ITEC alumni globally.

The President also discussed India's technological advancements, highlighting the significant role of women in the country's economic recovery. She noted that 36 percent of the 4.4 million professionals in India's IT sector are women.

President Murmu discussed India's progress in space exploration, science, and technology, expressing satisfaction with Algeria's interest in collaborating on digital payments and advancements. She referenced India's upcoming Gaganyaan mission, planned for next year, which aims to launch Indian astronauts into space.

She concluded by reaffirming the historical ties between India and Algeria, stating, "India-Algeria relations date back to the days of the Algerian liberation struggle against colonization... The current developments are a good beginning." She expressed optimism that youth from both nations would strengthen their cordial relations.