Université Blida 1 is a major public university in Algeria, located in the city of Blida, at the heart of the fertile Mitidja plain. Officially established in 1989 from a university center founded in 1977 and operational since 1981, it is named after Saâd Dahlab, a prominent figure of the Algerian national movement. Over time, the university has become a recognized center of excellence in scientific, technological, and medical fields, offering comprehensive programs under the LMD system (Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate). It comprises several faculties, including science, technology, medicine, and natural and life sciences, along with specialized institutes in areas such as aeronautics, architecture, veterinary sciences, and applied sciences. Supported by numerous research structures, including dozens of laboratories, the university actively contributes to national scientific production and the development of innovative solutions addressing socio-economic challenges, particularly in health, environment, agriculture, and advanced technologies. Its strategic location in a region with strong agricultural and industrial potential enhances its role in knowledge transfer and regional development. Furthermore, the university maintains collaborations with national and international institutions, promoting academic mobility and joint research projects. Hosting thousands of students each year, it stands as a key player in higher education in Algeria, contributing to the training of highly qualified professionals and the advancement of scientific research within a sustainable development framework.
Alternative animal feeds; Circular bioeconomy; Agro-industrial by-products valorization
Precision agriculture, Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial intelligence (AI)
The PRIMA Topic 1.2.1-2026 (IA) focuses on the development of a new generation of sustainable and alternative animal feeds aimed at supporting circular, resilient, and environmentally friendly Mediterranean farming systems. The main objective is to reduce dependence on conventional raw materials (such as soy or imported cereals) by exploring and valorizing local and renewable resources, including agro-industrial by-products, organic waste, insects, microalgae, and other alternative biomass sources.
This topic encourages the design of innovative solutions covering the entire value chain: formulation of new animal feeds, nutritional optimization, sanitary safety, pilot-scale production processes, as well as environmental and economic impact assessment. It also emphasizes the integration of circular economy principles by promoting waste reuse and loss reduction while improving the efficiency of livestock systems.
Projects supported under this topic must demonstrate their relevance within the Mediterranean context, which is characterized by climatic constraints (drought, scarcity of water and fodder resources) and strong pressure on agricultural systems. They aim to strengthen the resilience of animal production chains, improve the sustainability of farms, and promote more autonomous, innovative production models adapted to local conditions.
The Topic 2.2.1-2026 (RIA) aims at developing novel ICT-based systems for the remote and non-invasive monitoring and control of crop diseases and pest infestations in Mediterranean agricultural systems. The main objective is to improve early detection of phytosanitary risks in order to reduce crop losses, optimize interventions, and limit the excessive use of pesticides.
This topic encourages the integration of advanced technologies such as smart sensors, the Internet of Things (IoT), satellite or drone imaging, as well as artificial intelligence and data analytics to collect, process, and interpret real-time information on crop conditions. These systems should enable continuous and accurate monitoring of agricultural parameters (water stress, disease presence, pest pressure) without disturbing crops, thereby contributing to more efficient and sustainable precision agriculture.
Projects supported under this topic are expected to develop innovative solutions that can be tested and validated under real Mediterranean conditions, which are characterized by climatic constraints and high variability in agricultural systems. They should also demonstrate their ability to be adapted, scaled up, and integrated into existing farming practices, particularly for small and medium-sized farms.
Overall, this topic contributes to modernizing Mediterranean agriculture by strengthening the resilience of production systems, improving phytosanitary risk management, and promoting more sustainable and rational use of agricultural inputs.
