The Faculty of Law and Political Science at the University of Tlemcen hosted the fifth edition of its mock trial event, dedicated to the theme of cybercrime. The event took place in the university’s new virtual courtroom, in the presence of the University Rector, Professor Mourad Meghachou, the Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs, Pr. Bounouar BENSAIM, the Dean of the Faculty of Science, the Dean of the Faculty of Foreign Languages, representatives of the justice sector across the province, distinguished academic and judicial figures, security services, as well as professors, students, and administrative staff. The event reflected the convergence of academic training and professional practice within a single educational environment.

The event commenced with an address by the University Rector, Pr. Mourad MEGHACHOU, who emphasized that cybercrime has become one of the most significant challenges facing modern societies in a context marked by rapid digital transformation. He stressed the importance of strengthening legal awareness and enhancing students’ practical training in order to keep pace with the evolving field of digital justice. On this occasion, he also praised the efforts of Pr. GATAYA Benyounes and his team in organizing and successfully implementing this initiative, describing it as an innovative academic model combining theoretical knowledge with field experience.

For his part, the Dean of the Faculty of Law and Political Science, Pr. Fathi OUHIB, highlighted the pedagogical role of mock trials in student training. He noted that such simulations provide concrete opportunities to understand judicial mechanisms, develop advocacy and legal analysis skills, and master the handling of digital evidence in cyber-related cases. He also commended the work of Pr. GATAYA Benyounes and his team in establishing this innovative pedagogical approach within the university.

This judicial simulation allowed participants to experience the full stages of real court proceedings: case examination, analysis of digital evidence, pleadings, deliberation, and judgment delivery. The simulated case concerned a cybercrime-related matter, giving students the opportunity to engage with real and evolving legal challenges imposed by the technological environment and digital space, beyond the limits of traditional lectures.

The event concluded with an award ceremony honoring the students who participated in the mock trial, in recognition of their efforts and the quality of their legal and practical performance. Pr. GATAYA Benyounes also received a special distinction for his leading role in creating and developing this pedagogical experience, now established over five consecutive editions.

This fifth edition confirms that the mock trial has become a distinguished academic tradition at the University of Tlemcen. It contributes to training a new generation of legal professionals capable of addressing contemporary challenges with competence and professionalism, while reflecting the university’s commitment to modernizing its teaching methods and bringing students closer to the professional world.