Tunisian Education

Prior to 1958 education in Tunisia was only available to a privileged minority (14%). It is now given an extremely high priority and accounts for 6% of G.N.P. A basic education has been compulsory for both boys and girls between the ages of 6 and 16 since 1991.

Tunisia is a Muslim country but with a secular government. Great emphasis is given on the equality of girls and boys.

Language is given an extremely high priority. Children are brought up to speak Tunisian Arabic. When they enter school at age 5, they are taught in Classical Arabic. From the age of 8, they are taught French while English is introduced at the age of 10.

Basic School Learning Structure

3 to 6 - Preschool
This is comparatively new, optional and fee paying.

6 to 12 - Primary Grades 1 - 6
This is aimed at providing a basic education, teaching "the instruments of cognition and the basics in oral and written expression as well as reading and reckoning. It also aims to develop their minds" and help achieve skills in science, the arts, physical and manual abilities and civic and social responsibilities.

12 to 14 - Preparatory Grades 7 - 9
This is aimed at developing pupil's communications skills in Arabic and two foreign languages, as well as consolidating the basic education. Some pupils may be given alternative training at vocational training centers.

14 to 18 - Secondary
This is only available to pupils who have satisfied the ninth grade of basic schooling and who have a basic schooling certificate. The first year is common to all students followed by three years of specialization.

19 to 25 - Adult
There are "162 institutions of higher education, among them 22 Higher Institutes of Technological Studies (ISET), and 6 Higher Institutes of Teachers Training (ISFM)". A voluntary policy to promote adult education has served to increase literacy and pave the way to a "lifelong" education.