Tunisia's 2027 Education Budget Surpasses 9 Billion Dinars for First Time

Tunisia's Ministry of Education is set to receive 9.184 billion dinars in its 2027 budget, marking the first time it has surpassed the 9 billion dinar mark. This represents a 5.56% increase from the 8.7 billion dinars allocated in 2026. The education ministry's budget now accounts for 19.1% of Tunisia's total 2027 state budget, estimated at 68.9 billion dinars.

The education ministry's budget has seen significant growth over the years, with a 41% increase between 2020 and 2027. Minister of Education Noureddine Nouri stated that the allocated funds reflect the state's commitment to prioritizing education and its continued investment in the sector. Nouri made these comments during a joint session of the Assembly of People's Representatives' Education Committee and the National Council of Regions and Districts' Social Services Committee.

The majority of the education ministry's budget, around 90%, will go towards staff salaries, with 215,503 employees, including 4,588 technical cooperation agents. About 75% of the ministry's workforce is involved in teaching. The salary bill is expected to increase by over 585 million dinars in 2027, covering salary hikes, new recruitments, promotions, and other expenses.

Minister Nouri emphasized the state's focus on achieving equal opportunities, reducing regional disparities, and ensuring a safe and attractive learning environment. He also highlighted the ministry's efforts to continue digital transformation in education, support school life with extracurricular activities, and develop training programs for teachers and educators.

The 2027 education budget includes three main programs: primary education, middle and secondary education, and leadership and support. The middle and secondary education program will receive the largest allocation, 4.898 billion dinars, while the primary education program will receive 3.437 billion dinars. The budget also includes 410 million dinars for school infrastructure development and maintenance.

For the upcoming academic year, the number of primary schools is expected to reach 4,604, while the number of middle and secondary schools will be around 1,576. A total of 1,146,109 students are expected to attend these schools. Nine new educational institutions will be established, including six middle schools and three secondary schools.

Despite the increased budget, Minister Nouri acknowledged that challenges persist in the education sector, including overcrowding in classrooms, regional disparities, and a shortage of certain specialties. He stressed that the ministry will continue to work on addressing these issues and achieving its goals to improve education quality and infrastructure.

Key points

• The education ministry's 2027 budget is 9.184 billion dinars, a 5.56% increase from 2026.
• The budget includes 410 million dinars for school infrastructure development and maintenance.
• The ministry aims to achieve equal opportunities, reduce regional disparities, and ensure a safe and attractive learning environment.