The IRADA project, a pivotal initiative supported by GOPA Worldwide Consultants’ technical assistance that successfully ended last December, accompanied Tunisia’s socio-economic reforms and the transformation of the national vocational training system (DNFP). 

The project, funded by the European Union, was implemented over five years in eight governorates with sustainable outcomes that are continuing to boost economic sectors and improve vocational training quality in Tunisia.

Led by the Ministry of Economy and Planning alongside the Ministry of Vocational Training and Employment, the IRADA program comprised two key components: 

• strengthening the private sector’s role in sustainable economic development,
• improving the quality and relevance of vocational training offerings. 

The program also emphasized the importance of regional participation in vocational training governance and private sector development.

GOPA’s technical assistance was integral in:

• executing action plans,
• supporting 24 vocational training projects, 
• strengthening regional actors’ skills, 
• fostering collaboration through Public/Private Dialogue Platforms (PDPP). 

Key lessons included:

• the importance of detailed surveys, 
• business and regional involvement, 
• the role of Regional Vocational Training Directorates (DRFPE).

Continued positive impacts of the project include:

• strategic support for the Ministry of Vocational Training and Employment (MFPE), 
• a practical guide with 66 memo sheets on vocational training.