Strengthen the means of implementation
and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development
Prof Moez Chafra
President of the University of Tunis El Manar
1. Cross-Continental Partnership in Science and SDGs
The University of Tunis El Manar signed cooperation agreements with Hohai University and the University of Macau during a visit by its president, Professor Moez Chakroun, to China.The collaboration promotes student and faculty exchanges, joint research, and internships in water resource management, civil engineering, and environmental protection using innovative technologies, advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This partnership strengthens academic ties with leading Chinese universities.
2. Collaboration with Sustainability Resorts
The University of Tunis El Manar is actively collaborating with sustainability resorts such as GDA Sidi Amor and other partners in Germany in the context of the Taaziz Program to promote environmental conservation and sustainable tourism. These collaborations focus on integrating sustainable practices into the hospitality and tourism industries, ensuring that resort operations contribute to environmental protection and community development.Key areas of collaboration include:
- Sustainable Tourism Practices: Partnering with resorts to implement eco-friendly initiatives such as waste reduction, energy efficiency, and water conservation, enhancing the environmental sustainability of tourism.
- Research and Innovation: Engaging in research projects to develop new sustainable tourism models, focusing on minimizing the ecological footprint of resorts while providing educational opportunities for students.
- Community Engagement: Working together to ensure that local communities benefit from sustainable tourism through job creation, cultural preservation, and economic development.
Through these collaborations, the University of Tunis El Manar aims to promote sustainability in both local and global tourism industries.
3. The GEnMISTa’ziz Project
The University of Tunis El Manar and its Engineering Schools (ENIT) effectively collaborate with the University of Applied Sciences Zwickau (WHZ), Germany on SDGs implementation. The GEnMISTa’ziz project, funded by DAAD, focuses on advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through education, innovation, and industry partnerships.
It aims to integrate green engineering and sustainable management into academic programs at UTM-ENIT, introducing multidisciplinary courses for undergraduate and master’s students. The project includes seminars, conferences, and online workshops to align curricula with SDG priorities while fostering gender inclusion in green innovation fields.
By strengthening ties between academia, industry, and NGOs in both countries, this partnership seeks to train engineers equipped to implement sustainable practices in industrial and social contexts, contributing to socio-economic and environmental progress.
4. Migrants Project: Cooperation Agreement and Final Conference
The Migrants Project partners met in Palermo to evaluate phase one (2021–2023). A cooperation agreement was signed between the University of Tunis El Manar and its partners to strengthen collaboration.
The project aims to create an international, interdisciplinary master’s program in Migration Studies: Governance, Policies, and Cultures. This program, addressing migration and refugee-related challenges, is coordinated by Tunisian universities (Tunis El Manar, Tunis, and Manouba), in partnership with the University of Palermo, University of Westminster, University of Granada, and various experts and NGOs, including those working with refugees.
5. 11th International Arab Conference on Quality Assurance in Higher Education
The 11th International Arab Conference on Quality Assurance in Higher Education took place on November 8–9, 2023, in Tunisia, in partnership between the University of Tunis El Manar and the Secretariat of the conference at Al-Zarqa University in Jordan.
The program included an opening session and six workshops covering: quality culture, management, assurance standards and mechanisms, governance, strategic planning, university ranking, vocational and technical education, e-learning quality and performance evaluation, as well as innovation and excellence.
6. International Student Integration Days
The Faculty of Economic Sciences and Management at the University of Tunis El Manar celebrated its students from various nationalities through an event that provided an overview of the faculty, its internal system, and the specializations offered.
Information about university life was shared, and students had the opportunity to ask questions regarding registration, training, and university services.
This event is significant for innovation as it promotes multiculturalism and fosters collaboration among students from diverse backgrounds, facilitating their integration into university life and encouraging the exchange of ideas and perspectives.
7. WE4LEAD Project Launch: Advancing Gender Equality and Women’s Leadership
On December 14, 2023, the University of Tunis El Manar, in collaboration with other Tunisian universities, hosted the launch conference for the WE4LEAD Project at the Royal ASBU Hotel in Tunis.
This Erasmus+ capacity-building initiative aims to enhance women’s access to decision-making positions in higher education institutions (HEIs) and promote gender equality in governance. The project is co-led by Aix-Marseille University (France) and the Lebanese University, with partners from universities in Tunisia, Algeria, Lebanon, Italy, Spain, and other countries.
The initiative focuses on fostering leadership opportunities for women across international higher education systems. The conference highlighted the importance of engaging stakeholders and raising awareness about the project’s mission to advance gender equality in university leadership.
8. Recognition of NGOs Effort and Contribution to “UTM Sans Obstacles”
The University of Tunis El Manar (UTM) honored Mr. Radhouane Naghmouchi, former Director-General of the International Center for the Promotion of Disabled Persons, for his dedication and collaboration in the success of the second edition of “UTM Sans Obstacles”, held from May 26 to 28, 2023.
9. Partnership AUF-UTM for the Support of the New Student Entrepreneur Hub
A partnership agreement was signed between the University of Tunis El Manar (UTM), represented by President Moez Chafra, and the Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF), represented by Mr. Mejdi Ayari, Senior Project Manager.
This collaboration aims to strengthen support for entrepreneurial initiatives, providing students with the opportunity to benefit from the advantages of the student-entrepreneur status. This partnership will contribute to fostering entrepreneurship among UTM students and preparing them for future ventures.
The Hackathon Hack&Pitches Organized by ISSBAT in Partnership with P2E-UTM and Impact Partner
The P2E-UTM is excited to announce the signing of a partnership agreement between the University of Tunis El Manar (with its two components, the Student Entrepreneur Hub and ISSBAT) and Impact Partner. This collaboration reflects shared values and a commitment to fostering student entrepreneurship.
The partnership aims to transform students into tomorrow’s entrepreneurs, empowering them to build a sustainable future. Together, we are shaping the future of innovation and entrepreneurship.
10. University of Tunis El Manar: Partnership with Enda Inter-Arabe
On November 29, 2023, Professor Moez Chafra, President of the
University of Tunis El Manar, signed a partnership agreement with the
NGO Enda Inter-Arabe. This collaboration between Enda Startup Studio and the
University’s Student Entrepreneur Hub (P2E UTM) aims to support student entrepreneurship,
with a particular focus on empowering women entrepreneurs through training, coaching, and development.
The partnership aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth),
SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and SDG 5 (Gender Equality),
promoting women’s empowerment and fostering economic growth through innovation and entrepreneurship.
11. Partnership with African Universities
The University of Tunis El Manar (UTM) has established partnerships with several
African universities to enhance faculty and student mobility, promote research collaboration,
and foster mutual academic growth. These initiatives support SDG 4 (Quality Education)
and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
Notable collaborations include the University of Gamal Abdel Nasser Conakry in Guinea,
focusing on joint programs and academic exchanges to strengthen regional educational cooperation.
12. Triangular Partnership: Tunisia – Japan – African Countries in Medical Technologies
On December 14, 2022, a cooperation agreement was signed at the
Higher Institute of Medical Technologies in Tunis (ISTMT) to launch a training program
involving Tunisia, Japan, and African countries in medical technologies,
supporting SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.
The ceremony was attended by key figures including
Mr. Malek Kochlef (Director-General of International Cooperation at MESRS),
Professor Moez Chafra (President of UTM),
Mr. Adel Moadhen (Director of ISTMT),
Mr. Fethi Zagrouba (Director-General of the City of Sciences in Tunis),
Mr. Shuhei Ueno (JICA Resident Representative),
Mr. Daisuke Kawahara (Japanese Embassy), and
Professor Hedi Trabelssi, the project coordinator at ISTMT.
13. Student Mobility through Dual Degree Agreement
UTM has signed a dual degree agreement with ISI and IUT – Sorbonne Paris Nord. This partnership allows UTM’s second-year Bachelor’s students to spend their third year at the host university and earn a dual Licence/Bachelor degree.
The agreement promotes academic mobility, international collaboration, and cultural exchange, enhancing the global experience of UTM students.
14. Highlights of the Info Session on Free Soft Skills Training and Job Search Techniques
An info session was held focusing on free training in soft skills and job search techniques, organized in partnership with CORP (Centre d’Orientation et de Reconversion Professionnelle) and supported by an NGO dedicated to youth development.
The session provided valuable insights and practical tools designed to enhance professional development, focusing on equipping participants with essential skills for the job market.
This initiative aligns with SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), promoting sustainable employment opportunities and fostering long-term career success.
15. Partnership with Brazilian Universities
A cooperation agreement was signed between the University of Tunis El Manar, represented by President Professor Moez Chafra, and the Brazilian Group of International Cooperation of Brazilian Universities (GCUB), represented by Mrs. Rossana Valéria de Souza e Silva.
The agreement aims to enhance faculty and administrative qualifications, promote student exchanges, and develop joint teaching and research programs.
This partnership aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), fostering mutual assistance, equality, and strengthening academic and research collaboration.
16. Partnership with Saudi Arabia
Professor Moez Chafra, President of the University of Tunis El Manar, hosted a delegation from Naif Arab University for Security Sciences (Saudi Arabia), led by Professor Abdulmajeed Albanyan.
The meeting aimed to explore opportunities for collaboration in education and scientific research, focusing on enhancing the partnership between the two universities.
The discussions emphasized advancing SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).
17. Partnership with Shell Licenses and Vivo Energy
The Institute of Higher Studies in Scientific and Technical Applications (ISSBAT) has formed a strategic partnership with Shell Licenses and Vivo Energy.
This collaboration aims to drive research and development in the energy sector, focusing on sustainable energy solutions and reducing environmental impact.
The partnership promotes knowledge exchange, technical training, and collaborative research on energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, and sustainable practices. Through this alliance, students, researchers, and industry professionals will have the opportunity to engage in innovative projects supporting Tunisia’s energy transition and sustainability objectives.
18. Cooperation Agreement with the National Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology
The University of Tunis El Manar signed a cooperation agreement with the National Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology to collaborate on SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being).
The ceremony was attended by Professor Moez Chakroun (University President), Mrs. Najwa Ben Ammar (Director of the Institute), and Mrs. Jalila Al-Aati (Head of a Research Lab).
This partnership aims to strengthen scientific collaboration, and Professor Chakroun honored Mrs. Ben Ammar and Mrs. Al-Aati for their outstanding contributions.
19. Collaboration on Sustainability and University Branding
On July 29, 2024, Professor Moez Chakroun, President of the University of Tunis El Manar, signed a framework cooperation agreement with Professor Mustafa Aydin, President of Istanbul Aydin University, in the presence of the Turkish Ambassador to Tunisia, Mr. Ahmet Misbah Demircan.
The agreement aims to foster collaboration in sustainability initiatives and enhance university branding.
Discussions focused on scientific partnerships and the exchange of expertise in fields such as medicine, engineering, humanities, economics, languages, and sustainable development strategies.
20. Celebrating Excellence in Science at the Science Day Ceremony
The University of Tunis El Manar hosted its annual ceremony to honor outstanding students and recognize the contributions of faculty, staff, and administrators.
University President Professor Moez Chakroun praised the students’ remarkable achievements in undergraduate, medical, and engineering programs, wishing them continued success.
The event featured a vibrant cultural dance performance, adding a festive touch to the celebration. It also welcomed numerous stakeholders and partners, including NGOs, members of the local community, and the students’ families.
