Professor Belaid Akil Abdelkader Named IOHSK Vice President for Middle East and Central Asia
Reported on April 21, 2026, 11:38 AM
Los Angeles, California, U.S.
The International Organization for Health, Sports, and Kinesiology (IOHSK) is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Belaid Akil Abdelkader as the newly appointed Vice President of IOHSK Middle East and Central Asia. Professor Abdelkader is a Higher Education Full Professor at the University of Khemis Miliana, Algeria, where he has served in his current rank since December 2020 following his distinguished progression through the academic ranks of assistant and associate professor. He earned his Ph.D. in Theory and Methodology of Physical Education and Sports from the University of Algiers 3 in 2013 and completed his university qualification in the same field in 2014, both with the distinction of “Very Honorable.”
Professor Abdelkader’s scholarly and professional work reflects a strong record of excellence in theory and methodology of physical education and sport, applied sport sciences and new technology, education sciences, sports psychology, and elite sport mental training. He has also provided significant academic leadership through national committee service in Algeria and institutional roles such as Head of the Research Unit “Modern Technology and Sports Performance,” Chair of the Scientific Committee of the Institute of Physical Education, and Head of the Distance Learning Directorate.
His academic achievements include leadership of nationally funded research projects, including CNEPRU and PRFU grants focused on mental training strategies, mental processes, and sports performance among high-level athletes. His publication record includes peer-reviewed studies on visual-spatial ability training in soccer, mental imagery in karate-do, physical proficiency in futsal and soccer, and age-related performance development in middle-distance running. In addition, he has supervised 42 bachelor’s and master’s theses and five doctoral dissertations, demonstrating an outstanding commitment to mentoring future scholars and professionals.
Professor Abdelkader will work closely with Dr. Monem Haddad, Dean of Academic Affairs at Qatar University and President of IOHSK Middle East and Central Asia, and Dr. Ferman Konukman, Vice President, Middle East & Central Asia, Assistant Professor at Qatar University, Qatar. In this important leadership role, his primary responsibilities will include collaborating with regional and international members of the Board of Directors to advance the mission of IOHSK, expand membership opportunities, and help plan and administer academic and professional platforms and events for members.
IOHSK warmly welcomes Professor Belaid Akil Abdelkader to this important leadership position and looks forward to his valuable contributions to the continued growth and international impact of the organization.
Daily Life In Algiers, Algeria: People walk on a street in Algiers, Algeria, on July 21, 2025 (Photo by Billel Bensalem / APP/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
