A shortage of textbooks and subsidized notebooks has been reported in several bookstores across the Manouba governorate in Tunisia. The shortage, particularly affecting primary school textbooks in subjects such as writing and science, has been attributed to a decline in the allocation of textbooks to bookstores. Bookstore owners have expressed frustration with the new system of ordering textbooks, which limits them to two weekly orders, with a maximum of 30 copies per title.
The new system, implemented by the National Pedagogical Center in Bardo, has been criticized by bookstore owners who claim it does not meet their needs. They are calling for a return to the previous system, which allowed them to purchase textbooks at any time and in the quantities they required. Yosra Ayari, owner of a bookstore in Tebourba, is among those who have expressed concerns about the impact of the new system on their businesses.
The shortage of textbooks has raised concerns about the start of the new school year. Many bookstore owners fear that they will not be able to meet the demand for textbooks, which could lead to losses for their businesses. The situation has also highlighted the challenges faced by students and teachers who rely on these textbooks to carry out their studies and teaching.
In addition to the textbook shortage, there is also a shortage of subsidized notebooks in major licensed retail outlets. As a result, many people have been forced to purchase more expensive notebooks of various sizes. The shortage of subsidized notebooks has been attributed to the high demand for them, particularly with the start of the new school year.
The situation has caused frustration among parents and students who rely on these subsidized notebooks to complete their schoolwork. Many are calling for the authorities to take action to address the shortage and ensure that students have access to the educational materials they need.
The Ministry of Education has not yet commented on the situation. However, bookstore owners and parents are urging the authorities to take immediate action to resolve the shortage of textbooks and subsidized notebooks.
The shortage of textbooks and subsidized notebooks is not an isolated issue, as similar shortages have been reported in other parts of Tunisia. The government has been working to improve the education sector, but challenges such as these highlight the ongoing difficulties faced by students, teachers, and education providers.
Key points
- Bookstore owners in Tunisia's Manouba governorate are complaining of a shortage of textbooks and subsidized notebooks ahead of the new school year.
- The new system of ordering textbooks, which limits bookstores to two weekly orders, has been criticized by bookstore owners.
- The shortage of textbooks and subsidized notebooks has raised concerns about the start of the new school year and the impact on students and teachers.
