Inter-company training creates prospects for young Tunisians (completed)

Context

Tunisia continues to face substantial social and economic challenges. The economy is developing slowly and the official unemployment rate is around 15 per cent on average.

One way to stimulate the economy is to enhance vocational education and training. At present, training is heavily school-based. Practical elements in schools tend to be rare and have so far had too little impact. For example, after their training, job starters do not have the skills needed on the labour market. At the same time, companies are seldom used as a place of learning for vocational education and training. There are virtually no incentives for them to get involved in vocational education and training, either financially or in terms of the curriculum.

Politicians, businesses and administrations have recognised that vocational education and training needs to be renewed and have taken first steps to acheive that goal. However, vocational education and training reform is still lacking behind the schedule.

Objective

The employability of young people in Tunisia in selected occupational fields has improved.

Approach

Companies in Tunisia – especially in sectors with high employment potential – should be encouraged to get more involved in vocational education and training and to communicate the needs of the labour market more clearly. They will then have the opportunity to meet their requirements for well-trained workers and provide services more effectively.

The project is therefore working with the private sector to develop technical training programmes in the areas of textiles, plastics processing and the hotel industry. It is improving the curricula in state vocational schools in close cooperation with vocational training bodies, thus contributing to better networking between the schools and regional enterprises.

In addition, the project is providing support for cooperative vocational education and training in the state system. Training formats aim to develop the skills of employees working in vocational education and training agencies.

Last update: October 2023