The Tunisian Parliament's Health Committee held a session on October 6, 2026, to discuss a proposed law regulating the establishment of childcare centers and kindergartens. The law aims to restructure the sector and set conditions for the establishment and management of these institutions. Committee members emphasized the importance of carefully studying the proposal, considering the crucial role these institutions play in shaping children's personalities and psychological well-being.
The proposed law, introduced by a group of MPs, consists of 30 articles and covers various regulatory aspects. During the session, committee members discussed the content of the first chapter of the proposal and reviewed observations and proposed amendments from various parties. They focused on the second and third articles, with some members suggesting raising the age limit for children's admission to childcare centers from two to three months, in line with a 2024 law on parental leave.
Committee members also debated the organization of preparatory sections in kindergartens and schools, highlighting several issues related to the variation in educational programs, teacher qualifications, and material conditions for receiving children. They stressed the need for unified pedagogical programs and standard conditions across different ministries responsible for childcare institutions. Moreover, they emphasized the importance of regulating the sector, as the increasing number of unlicensed childcare centers poses a significant risk to children's upbringing.
Some committee members pointed out the high cost of services offered by childcare centers and kindergartens, particularly in Tunis and major cities, and suggested setting a price ceiling. The committee decided to postpone the vote on the proposal and further study its provisions, possibly consulting with other relevant institutions. The proposed law was submitted to the Parliament on April 29, 2026, and referred to the committee on May 7, 2026.
The committee's discussions highlighted the need for a comprehensive regulatory framework to oversee the establishment and operation of childcare centers and kindergartens. Committee members acknowledged the importance of ensuring that these institutions provide a safe and nurturing environment for children. They also recognized the need for effective monitoring and supervision to prevent unlicensed centers from operating.
The proposed law aims to address the challenges facing the childcare sector in Tunisia, including the proliferation of unlicensed centers and the need for standardized conditions and regulations. By regulating the sector, the government hopes to ensure that children receive high-quality care and education. The committee's review of the proposal is expected to contribute to the development of a more effective regulatory framework.
The Tunisian Parliament's Health Committee will continue to study the proposed law and may consult with other stakeholders before making a decision. The committee's work is crucial in shaping the future of childcare in Tunisia and ensuring that children have access to safe and nurturing environments.
Key points
- The Tunisian Parliament's Health Committee is reviewing a proposed law to regulate childcare centers and kindergartens.
- The proposed law aims to restructure the sector and set conditions for the establishment and management of childcare institutions.
- Committee members are discussing the need for unified pedagogical programs and standard conditions across different ministries responsible for childcare institutions.
