Improving the quality of education and enhancing graduates’ skills is one of the major objectives of Tunisia’s 2026–2030 Development Plan, recently reviewed by the standing committees of the Assembly of People’s Representatives (ARP).
This effort is expected to rely on modernizing the legal framework governing private higher education by revising the conditions for establishing private institutions and defining standards for diploma equivalency and recognition.
The ultimate goal is to lay the foundations for a high-quality education system that ensures equal opportunities among different institutions.
The plan also aims to better align university curricula with labor market needs through the integration of language, digital, and practical skills, the development of professional and competency reference guides and the updating of training programs, particularly in the fields of technology, green economy, and the environment.
In this regard, the plan targets increasing the share of academically accredited programs from 12.9% in 2025 to 25% by 2030.
The initiative also seeks to improve graduate employability by involving economic stakeholders in the design and evaluation of university programs and by adopting certification systems that comply with international standards.
It further provides for career guidance and support programs, strengthening the role of university observatories in monitoring graduate integration into the workforce and collecting data needed to improve higher education policies.
Promoting entrepreneurship culture
The plan also aims to foster a culture of private initiative and entrepreneurship within universities by supporting the “Student Entrepreneur” program, developing university incubation systems, and encouraging innovation.
In addition, it calls for the organization of continuing education programs within universities and the creation of a Tunisian Agency for International Students to attract foreign students, which could help universities generate additional revenue.
The plan also includes measures to strengthen infrastructure and services for students, develop cultural and sports activities, and create a digital platform for remote psychological support.
Currently, Tunisia has 295 higher education institutions, compared to 276 in 2021, of which 28.8% are private institutions.
Student enrollment has also increased, rising from 270,000 students during the 2020–2021 academic year to 324,000 in 2024–2025, with private university students accounting for 15.8% of the total.
The number of graduates has also increased from 61,000 in 2021 to 71,000 in 2024, with graduates from private institutions representing around 17% of the total.
Adapting to Global Trends
At the same time, challenges persist, particularly youth unemployment and the lengthy transition into the labor market, compounded by a private sector struggling to create enough highly qualified job opportunities.
Structural obstacles, including skills mismatches and shortcomings in workplace-based learning, continue to hinder employment prospects.
In this context, adapting effectively to major global trends such as digitalization and climate change requires sustainable investment in skills related to the green transition, digital technologies, and health education.
These areas are essential for equipping graduates with the competencies needed for future economic opportunities and ensuring competitiveness in a rapidly evolving labor market.
