Tunisia has consistently prioritized the vocational training sector, which has seen significant growth over the years. As such, a comprehensive reform of the vocational training system remains a key factor in facilitating the integration of young Tunisians into the job market and creating more employment opportunities for unemployed youth.
According to recent figures from the Ministry of Vocational Training and Employment, Tunisia has 136 public vocational training centers with a capacity of **90,000 trainees, offering 270 specialties. The private sector operates 3,000 centers, accommodating 40,000 trainees.
In this context, Minister of Employment and Vocational Training, Riadh Chaouad, emphasised during a recent meeting his department’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with the National Federation of Leather and Footwear (FNCC) and the National Chamber of Leather and Footwear Artisans. The goal is to develop a joint action plan to address the sector’s need for specialized skills.
According to a ministry statement, the meeting explored a range of solutions, including the provision of short-term and complementary training programs, particularly in issuing Professional Qualification Certificates (CAQP) for artisans and industrialists in the sector.
The minister praised the contribution of the leather and footwear sector to the national economy, highlighting its potential for job creation. He also stressed the importance of the Professional Qualification Certificate as a crucial tool for quickly aligning the labor market with the needs of economic sectors, including leather and footwear.
Rethinking Regulations
For his part, Akram Belhaj, President of the FNCC, outlined the challenges facing the sector, including declining production due to the closure of many businesses and the lack of interest among young people in leather and footwear trades.
Participants also discussed revising regulations related to professional qualifications for the production of slippers and shoes, as well as the need to divide small trades into subcategories.
An agreement was reached to simplify the procedures for obtaining the qualification certificate and to establish a joint working committee comprising representatives from the ministry, its affiliated structures, and the FNCC.
The FNCC committed to submitting a list of skill requirements for companies by the end of February 2025.
In return, the ministry will oversee the training of learners, ensuring their accommodation and allowances.
It is worth recalling that the Tunisian government had previously announced a series of measures, including the introduction of new vocational training programs in the university orientation guide to attract new high school graduates toward in-demand professional specialties.
The aim of this initiative is to address unemployment, enhance and improve skills, and create new specialties that meet the needs of the private sector.
