Gubkin University Signs Memorandum of Cooperation with the University of Boudermes

Algerian companies are interested in training personnel and developing offshore drilling technologies with the assistance of Russian specialists. On December 23, 2025, Gubkin Russian State University of Oil and Gas (National Research University) and the University of Boudermes (Algeria) signed a memorandum of cooperation in science and education. Rectors Viktor Martynov and Abdelbaki Noureddine participated in the ceremony, which took place at Gubkin University.

The memorandum provides for collaboration in training students in the Oil and Gas Engineering program and advanced training for current employees of oil and gas companies, as well as in conducting advanced scientific research for the fuel and energy sector. The parties agreed to develop a roadmap for joint activities for 2026.

Abdelbaki Noureddine noted that Budermes is particularly interested in training specialists for offshore field development and developing offshore drilling technologies.

Equipment and technology for offshore drilling and field development are among the most expensive in the world today. The cost of a drillship can exceed the cost of building a space rocket. Around 3,000 contractors are involved in the construction of one such vessel, and the daily rental is estimated at $100,000-$600,000.

"In real-world conditions, it is impossible to train employees on expensive and unique equipment. Digital twins and virtual models of production facilities are used for training. Gubkin University has established Russia's first Offshore Drilling Center, realistic simulators, and a training ground for underwater production equipment," noted Viktor Martynov. The training ground was built with the support of the Russian Ministry of Education and Science.

During their visit to Gubkin University, the delegation from Mukhammed Bugara University of Budermes also visited educational centers where students are trained using digital technologies.