Tunisia Invests in Cultural Clubs to Combat School Violence and Boost Student Engagement

Tunisia’s Ministry of Education is expanding cultural clubs in schools across the country as part of a broader strategy to address rising student disengagement and violence. The initiative, unveiled by Minister Noureddine Nouri, aims to revitalize school life and provide students with positive outlets for expression and creativity.

A Holistic Approach to Education

The move reflects a growing recognition that a purely academic focus can leave students feeling disconnected and vulnerable to negative influences. Minister Nouri emphasized that the goal is not to lengthen the school day, but to strategically utilize existing time to prioritize a holistic educational experience. This approach acknowledges the importance of fostering emotional intelligence, building community, and offering alternatives to risky behaviors.

National Forum on Image in Schools

The initiative stems from the recent National Forum on Image in Schools, which brought together representatives from 26 regional commissions and 52 students from various governorates. During the forum, Minister Nouri highlighted the crucial role of extracurricular activities in shaping a child’s personality and safeguarding against social issues [Source: Le Temps].

Expanding Cultural Activities

The Ministry of Education plans to integrate various artistic mediums, including drawing, music, theater, and cinema, into the school curriculum through these cultural clubs. This will allow students to better express their abilities and foster a psychological, cultural, and intellectual balance [Source: Tunisie Numérique]. The initiative aims to break down the barriers between classroom learning and recreation, creating more space for creativity and self-expression.

Infrastructure Improvements and Digital Access

This cultural push is part of a larger effort to modernize and enrich the Tunisian learning environment. As of November 2025, the Ministry of Education reported the maintenance and renovation of 30% of schools and the construction of 13 new facilities [Source: Memesita]. The ongoing Edunet 10 program is bringing high-speed internet and computer equipment to most Tunisian schools.

Minister Nouri’s Vision

Noureddine Nouri, appointed Minister of Education in August 2024, has been actively addressing infrastructure concerns and promoting a more well-rounded educational approach [Source: Tunisian Government Portal]. He believes that investing in culture is essential to equipping students with the resilience to navigate contemporary challenges and to address the rise of violence and other emerging social phenomena.