Tunisia's Research Ecosystem Set to Undergo a Deep Transformation

On the occasion of the international forum "DigitAfrica", Mourad Bellassoued, head of the scientific research program, presented a glowing assessment of Tunisia's research ecosystem. With top-notch academic performances and new strategic ambitions on the horizon by 2035, the country aims to solidify its role as a technological locomotive on the continent.

A New National Strategy for Research and Innovation

The Tunisian research landscape is on the cusp of a profound transformation. Mourad Bellassoued, who also serves as the cabinet director of the Minister of Higher Education, announced that the authorities are currently working on a new national strategy dedicated to scientific research and innovation. This ambitious project, set to be completed by 2035, is being built in an inclusive manner with the participation of all stakeholders in the sector.

Academic Excellence Quantified

Current indicators already demonstrate the solidity of the Tunisian model. According to Bellassoued, Tunisia has successfully built a research architecture of rare efficiency, ranking at the top of continental rankings. The country holds the first place in Africa for the number of researchers per total population, while dominating scientific production through a record volume of publications in international peer-reviewed journals.

From Academic Vitality to Economic and Social Impact

However, this academic vitality must now take a new step forward. For Bellassoued, the real challenge lies in the system's ability to transfer its results to the economic and social fabric. The objective is clear: to transform laboratory discoveries into concrete growth levers for businesses and society.

A Dense Network for National Sovereignty

National digital sovereignty, a pillar of economic independence, directly depends on the performance of this ecosystem. Tunisia relies on an impressive network of over 540 laboratories covering all disciplinary fields. In addition to these structures, 13 technological hubs currently serve as a bridge between the academic world and industry needs.

ENSI at the Heart of International Cooperation

This dynamic is also part of a marked international openness, as illustrated by the "DigitAfrica" project. Financed by the European Horizon Europe program, this partnership brings together 11 nations, including Senegal, Cameroon, South Africa, and Kenya on the African side, as well as several European powers such as France, Germany, and Switzerland.

During the forum, Anja Habacha, director of the National School of Computer Science (ENSI), specified that Tunisia, through the University of Manouba, plays a driving role in this alliance. Through ENSI's expertise, the country actively contributes to the establishment of a robust research infrastructure at the continental scale, reaffirming its vocation as a technological bridge between the two shores of the Mediterranean.