Algerian business leader recognised for achievements

Thursday 03 July 2025

Dr Bouziane Kies, who helped secure large numbers of international staff for Algerian Universities after the departure of French teachers in 1972 and thereby helped to keep Algeria’s universities open, has received an honorary degree from Robert Gordon University (RGU). Dr Kies has also championed RGU in Algeria for the last twenty years.

Dr Kies grew up in Algeria during a time of French rule. Following independence and the nationalisation of French oil companies in 1971, all French teachers were removed from schools and universities. Tasked by the Ministry of Higher Education as part of a team of six to address this urgent need, Dr Kies travelled internationally to recruit hundreds of academic staff. Thanks to their efforts, the universities opened as planned in 1972.

In recognition of his achievements, he and his wife received PhD scholarships to study in the USA. After completing their studies, they returned to Algeria in 1982 to teach. In 2000, Dr Kies founded a laboratory instrumentation company, EE Force. In 2004, he and a French colleague identified RGU as their partner to provide training services to Sonatrach, the Algerian national oil company (which is also the largest indigenous company in Africa).

This partnership enabled the establishment of education and training programmes in Algeria, generating hundreds of RGU graduates and revenue of over £12 million. RGU's relationship with Sonatrach and its training arm, IAP, remains strong today, and only last year, RGU was selected to join a new prequalification framework to offer new programmes in Algeria – the only university on the framework.

Professor Steve Olivier, Principal and Vice-Chancellor, said: "As a university, we have enjoyed a special relationship with IAP and wider Sonatrach for over 20 years, having produced over 400 Masters and 50 MBA graduates in energy disciplines, which was only possible with Bouziane’s support.

"Dr Kies also provided support for RGU staff delivering in Algeria, particularly during times of heightened security concerns, and provided strategic political and cultural advice. It is noteworthy that RGU remains the only UK university to maintain a direct partnership with Sonatrach.

“Even in the face of challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and economic changes, which have made it difficult for RGU to operate in the country in recent years, Bouziane has remained a staunch supporter of the university, continuing his support on a voluntary basis.”

Dr Kies received his award for his efforts in promoting education in Algeria and creating opportunities for young people through international collaboration. He is also recognised for his long-standing promotion and support of RGU.

He received a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) award at P&J Live, Aberdeen, on Wednesday, 02 July, 2025.