Tunisia’s Mathematics Stream Faces a Critical Crisis Amid Growing Student Disinterest
The mathematics track in Tunisia is going through a critical period, confronted with a rising lack of interest among students. Experts blame the university‑orientation system for stifling the development of this discipline, which is essential for the country’s academic and professional future.
“The lack of prospects in the mathematics stream is pushing more and more students to abandon it, even though it forms a crucial foundation for Tunisia’s scientific and technological future,” said Slim Kacem, president of the Tunisian Association for Education Quality, during his interview on Saturday, 21 February 2026 on Radio Nationale.
Key points raised by Slim Kacem
- Re‑evaluate privileges for math‑focused baccalaureates – Students who graduate with a strong mathematics background should receive priority when choosing university specialties to restore the track’s attractiveness.
- Teacher shortage – The crisis is compounded by a scarcity of specialized mathematics teachers. The Ministry of Education is currently redeploying teachers from other disciplines to cover math classes, a temporary and insufficient solution according to experts.
- Urgent action needed – With the global economy increasingly dependent on mathematics— the driving force behind the technological revolution and the explosive growth of artificial intelligence—Tunisia must act now to safeguard its future.
Why the situation matters
Mathematics is more than a school subject; it is the bedrock of innovation. A weakened mathematics pipeline threatens Tunisia’s ability to compete in high‑tech sectors, research, and the emerging AI market.
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72 % of students struggle with mathematics – La Presse (Feb 16 2026)
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