On the sidelines of the European Investment Bank (EIB) MED conference 2023 held in Barcelona, Tunisia sealed a significant €40 million (~$47 million) financing deal. This funding, equivalent to roughly 132 million Tunisian Dinars, will be channeled towards improving and modernizing the nation’s educational infrastructure.
The agreement was signed by Samir Saïd, Tunisia’s Minister of Economy and Planning, and Ricardo Mourinho Felix, the EIB’s Vice President. This financing initiative is poised to facilitate the construction of 80 primary schools equipped with modern specifications distributed across various regions of the country.
This funding’s key objective is to provide a suitable and up-to-date educational and pedagogical infrastructure that aids in mitigating school dropouts and fostering the acquisition of modern knowledge within a fair and inclusive system. It is estimated that close to 14,500 students will reap the benefits of this program.
Additionally, the funds will enable the provision of necessary equipment that meets modern specifications. This includes digital tools, school transportation, and other logistical requirements that play a vital role in the learning environment.
On this occasion, Samir Saïd underscored the significance of this funding for the education sector, a top-priority area within the government’s reform programs and its major development trends. Human development, especially education at all stages, holds a high position, considering human resources as Tunisia’s primary wealth.
The Minister appreciated the EIB’s support for this initiative, emphasizing the distinct cooperative relations between the two sides, which have continually evolved and diversified in recent years. These ties encompass several vital and priority sectors such as infrastructure, education, water, sanitation, local community support, private sector support, among others.
