Tunisian Secondary Education Sector Faces Increased Tensions

The Tunisian secondary education sector is experiencing increased tensions due to the government's alleged backtracking on its commitments and inability to provide necessary resources to schools. The General Federation of Secondary Education, affiliated with the Tunisian General Labor Union (UGTT), has called on teachers to continue recording student grades as usual. In a statement released on November 7, 2026, the federation expressed concerns over the government's actions, which they claim are detrimental to public education and the rights of teachers and students.

The federation denounced the government's arbitrary decisions and temporary solutions, which they believe undermine public education and the rights of teachers and students. They also criticized the government's policy towards union work and unionists, citing restrictions and pressures on union leaders, including salary deductions and judicial proceedings. According to the federation, these measures violate international conventions on union rights and worker protection.

The federation highlighted the repeated attacks on teachers' rights, stating that the government's failure to honor its commitments does not justify their reversal. They rejected the use of unemployed graduates to fill vacant positions and temporary solutions that compromise the principle of equal opportunities for students. The federation called on its regional and local structures to unite and prepare for all forms of mobilization in defense of their acquired rights.

The statement, titled "Public School Cannot Withstand This Chaos," emphasized the federation's concerns over the government's actions. The federation accused the government of systematically dismantling acquired rights and failing to provide schools with necessary resources. They also expressed concerns over the impact of these actions on students and the overall quality of education.

The Tunisian secondary education sector has experienced increased tensions in recent months, with teachers and unions expressing concerns over working conditions and the government's policies. The sector has faced several challenges, including a shortage of teachers and inadequate resources. The government's actions have been criticized by unions and teachers, who claim that they are detrimental to public education and the rights of teachers and students.

The federation's statement reflects the growing concerns over the government's policies and actions in the education sector. The government's alleged backtracking on its commitments and inability to provide necessary resources have created a challenging environment for teachers and students. The federation's call for mobilization and defense of acquired rights highlights the need for a resolution to the ongoing tensions in the sector.

The situation in the Tunisian secondary education sector remains uncertain, with tensions expected to escalate if a resolution is not reached. The government's policies and actions will likely continue to face criticism from unions and teachers, who are advocating for better working conditions and resources for public education. The impact of these tensions on students and the overall quality of education remains a concern.

Key points

• The Tunisian General Labor Union (UGTT) has called on teachers to prepare for all forms of mobilization in defense of their acquired rights.