Announcement of Tunisia Improves Education and Training System on May 15, 1989

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE World Bank 1818 H Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20433, U.S.A. * Telephone: (202) 477-1234 BANK NEWS RELEASE NO. 89/62 Contact: Fawzi Rihane (202) 473-2675 TUNISIA IMPROVES EDUCATION AND TRAINING SYSTEM WASHINGTON, May 15, 1989 -- Tunisia is embarking on a far-reaching program to improve the quality and efficiency of its education and vocational training system. The World Bank is supporting these efforts with a $95 million loan. The World Bank loan will partially finance the Ministry of Education's investment programs. About 1,600 primary and 330 secondary schools will be rehabilitated, 800 canteens and some 95 junior high schools will be constructed and equipped. Textbooks and other educational materials will be distributed to schools, and technical assistance will be provided to improve the quality of education and make management of the system more efficient. The loan will also finance civil works and equipment needed for the development of vocational training centers in collaboration with industry associations. These centers are run by the Office of Vocational Training and Labor. Tunisia's education and training system will play a major role in providing the skills and training that are necessary for the country's changing economy and its export-oriented development strategy. The World Bank loan is for 17 years including five year's grace, with a variable interest rate, currently 7.65 percent, linked to the cost of the Bank's borrowings. It also carries an annual commitment charge of 0.75 percent on the undisbursed balance. Note: Money figures are in U.S. dollar equivalents