The Tunisian government has responded to concerns raised by lawmakers regarding the status of adult education teachers. In a written reply to questions from MPs Hassan Al-Jarboui and Asma Al-Dreish, the government stated that an order has been issued to improve the financial situation of these teachers. The order, number 544 of 2024, amends a previous decree regulating the employment of contract teachers and those involved in adult education and literacy.
The government explained that resolving the professional status of adult education teachers requires their classification under the teaching profession, which aligns with their assigned tasks. However, this poses several challenges due to the diverse age groups, educational levels, and specialties of those involved. The government emphasized that the new order aims to address these issues and provide a better working environment for these teachers.
The issue has been a longstanding concern for adult education teachers, who have dedicated years to serving the country and spreading knowledge. MP Hassan Al-Jarboui previously stated that these teachers have not received the recognition they deserve, despite their significant contributions to building society and combating illiteracy. He called for the regularization of their professional and administrative status to ensure job security and professional dignity.
The Ministry of Social Affairs is responsible for managing the National Program for Adult Education through the National Center for Adult Education. The program aims to provide learning opportunities for adults and combat illiteracy across various regions. According to the National Institute of Statistics, the illiteracy rate in Tunisia has decreased to 17.3%. The government is working to expand the concept of adult education to include life skills, health education, and road safety.
The National Program for Adult Education currently has 945 learning centers and 11 model centers in 11 governorates. The program targets between 20,000 and 25,000 illiterate individuals annually, with over 845 contract teachers and 114 permanent teachers. The program's new approach focuses on lifelong learning, providing diverse learning opportunities, and responding to different needs.
The Director General of the National Program for Adult Education recently stated that the new approach aims to link learning to social and economic empowerment. The program seeks to provide a more comprehensive and inclusive education system that supports the social and economic integration of learners.
The government's response to the concerns of adult education teachers is seen as a step towards addressing the challenges faced by these educators. The implementation of the new order and the expansion of the adult education program are expected to have a positive impact on the lives of thousands of individuals and contribute to the country's efforts to combat illiteracy and promote lifelong learning.
Key points
- The Tunisian government has issued an order to improve the financial situation and career prospects of adult education teachers.
- The government aims to resolve the professional status of adult education teachers by classifying them under the teaching profession.
- The National Program for Adult Education targets between 20,000 and 25,000 illiterate individuals annually.
