Facing a youth unemployment crisis nearing 40%, Tunisia is deepening its partnership with China to equip its next generation with critical digital skills and stimulate job creation through technology transfer and specialized training programs.
The strategic move was highlighted at the recent China–Arab States Expo, where Tunisian diplomat Anis Touati outlined how initiatives from Chinese tech giants are providing tangible opportunities. Programs like Huawei’s ICT Academy and its “Seeds for the Future” are enabling Tunisian students to gain coveted international certifications and compete on a global stage.
The cooperation, now formalized under a new science and technology agreement, targets high-demand sectors including artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and healthcare. The objective is clear: bridge the gap between education and the economy by fostering a pipeline of skilled graduates to launch startups and attract foreign investment.
The urgency of this partnership is underscored by stark demographic and economic data. Tunisia’s National Statistics Institute reports that over 60% of its population is of working age (15-59), while the International Labour Organization (ILO) estimates a youth unemployment rate of 39.2%. This demographic pressure makes the creation of qualified jobs a primary government imperative.
Tunisia’s strategy reflects a broader trend across Africa, where nations are seeking Chinese expertise to build out their technological infrastructure. Neighboring Morocco has partnered with the Tianjin College of Commerce for programs in e-commerce and AI, while Benin has expanded its technical training capacity through the Akassato Sino-Beninese Friendship Technical School.
Analysts suggest that while these Sino-Tunisian initiatives offer a crucial short-term boost, their long-term success will hinge on Tunisia’s ability to convert training into sustained employment and homegrown innovation. Ultimately, diversifying partnerships beyond China to include other regional and global players may be key to building a resilient and competitive economy for the future.
TunisianMonitorOnline (Editorial Staff)
