The National Employment and Independent Work Agency of Tunisia, led by its General Director, Hatem Dhaman, participated in the German-Tunisian Economic Forum held in Essen, Germany, on September 17-18, 2026. The forum aimed to strengthen cooperation between Tunisia and Germany in areas such as investment, employment, and skills development. The event brought together public and economic institutions, academics, and economic actors from both countries.

The forum discussed several strategic sectors, including ecological transition, health, digitalization, innovation, and skills development. During a session focused on the Tunisian diaspora as a partner in investment, Dhaman highlighted the potential of Tunisian skills residing abroad, citing their ability to create value through direct investment in Tunisia and facilitating access to German and European markets.

Dhaman emphasized the need to transition from temporary initiatives to a sustainable and organized partnership, providing a clearer institutional framework and simplifying procedures for investors. He stressed the importance of close monitoring and support for investors from the initial idea stage to recruitment and business development.

The Ministry of Employment and Vocational Training, along with related structures, plays a crucial role in this dynamic through basic and continuous vocational training, contributing to skills development and enhancing employability. The agency's participation in the forum aimed to promote dialogue with German partners and convert cooperation opportunities into concrete projects.

The forum also addressed issues related to recruiting skilled workers and professional mobility, with the goal of opening up new avenues for cooperation benefiting job seekers, entrepreneurs, and institutions. Participants emphasized the need for technical skills in priority sectors such as healthcare, circular economy, and energy transition.

The National Employment and Independent Work Agency's participation in the forum enabled it to collaborate with vocational training structures and relevant partners to match skills with job opportunities and investments. This effort supports sustainable development and employment in Tunisia.

The agency's involvement in the German-Tunisian Economic Forum demonstrates Tunisia's commitment to fostering economic cooperation and development through partnerships with international organizations and countries. This participation is expected to yield positive outcomes for Tunisia's economy and employment landscape.

Key points

  • The National Employment and Independent Work Agency participates in the German-Tunisian Economic Forum to promote cooperation in investment, employment, and skills development.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.