Guest lecture explores social media, tourism and renewable energy in Algeria

UTAR Faculty of Business and Finance (FBF) welcomed two distinguished guest lecturers, Dr Lagraa Meriem from the University of Saida and Dr Djouahra Saliha from the University of Algiers 3, Algeria, on 25 February 2025. Their visit provided an opportunity for academic discussions and collaboration, reinforcing UTAR’s commitment to fostering global academic partnerships.

The delegation was warmly received by FBF Dean Assoc Prof Dr Au Yong Hui Nee, Deputy Dean for Research and Development and Postgraduate Programmes Prof Dr Abdelhak Senadjki, Head of Programme for PhD (Economics) Dr Vikniswari Vija Kumaran, and Head of Department for Business and Public Administration Dr Siti Fazilah binti Abdul Shukor. A comprehensive briefing was conducted on UTAR’s academic programmes and ongoing research and development (R&D) initiatives, highlighting the university’s dedication to international academic engagement.

The guest lecture, organised at the invitation of Dr Vikniswari, was held on 4 March 2025. It explored critical economic themes, including the role of social media in tourism and the potential of renewable energy in Algeria’s industrial development. The session drew strong interest from students, particularly those from the Industrial Economics course and postgraduate programmes, offering them real-world insights into the digital economy’s impact on traditional industries.

Students actively participated in discussions, raising pertinent questions about sustainable tourism policies, the long-term economic feasibility of solar power, and the role of public and private sectors in energy infrastructure development. The engaging dialogue provided valuable perspectives on the intersection of technology, economics, and sustainability.

FBF extends its sincere appreciation to Dr Lagraa Meriem and Dr Djouahra Saliha for their invaluable contributions. Their insights not only enriched students’ academic experiences but also reinforced UTAR’s dedication to providing global economic perspectives and industry-relevant learning opportunities. This event marks another milestone in UTAR’s ongoing efforts to enhance international academic collaborations and knowledge exchange.