Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education
and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all
Transforming our relationship with nature is key to a sustainable future
Pr. Halima Mahjoubi, UTM,SDG 4 Ambassador
The University of Tunis El Manar (UTM) is actively committed to contributing to
Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which aims to ensure
inclusive, equitable, and quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities.
Expanded and Equitable Access to Education
The University of Tunis El Manar (UTM) has made significant efforts in digital infrastructure and training to ensure equitable access to quality education for all students:
- Internet Access and Campus Wi-Fi Points: UTM has established an extensive network of Wi-Fi access points across its campuses. In 2023, 60% of classrooms and study spaces were equipped with high-performance Wi-Fi, a 20% increase from 2021.
- Distance Learning: UTM has developed an online course platform, allowing students to attend courses remotely and access resources. Currently, 15% of core courses are available in hybrid or fully online formats.
- Instructor Training: Nearly 40% of instructors participated in at least one training session on online learning tools and digital teaching technologies in 2023.
Quality Assurance in Education
Quality Assurance in Education
Quality Assurance Initiatives
STRENGTHENING UNIVERSITY STAFF SKILLS
Three workshops have been organized, covering essential topics such as research center management and quality assurance,
the ethical frameworks of scientific research, and the valorization of research results.
These training sessions equipped participants with practical skills and in-depth knowledge in these key areas.
More details here
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- Scientific Research Ethics: Training in Tabarka (Nov 22–24, 2023) on ethical frameworks, codes of conduct,
and anti-plagiarism systems. Attended by vice-rectors, deans, researchers, and administrative leaders. - Training on European Projects: Week-long training in Palermo, Italy, focusing on Horizon Europe, project
proposal writing, budget setup, and RRI principles.
Training on research ethics, held in Tabarka from November 22 to 24, 2023, aimed to popularize ethical frameworks and research activity standards, including codes of conduct and anti-plagiarism systems. The training was presented by experts from the University of Pavia and the University of Pisa and was attended by university leaders (vice-rectors for scientific research, deans, vice-deans), academic staff (faculty and researchers), and administrative leaders (research service directors and laboratory heads). Best practices acquired are perpetuated through cascade training for colleagues, with monitoring and potential audits conducted by European bodies.
An intensive week-long training took place in Palermo, Italy, focused on European and international funding programs, particularly Horizon Europe. Participants learned to draft high-quality project proposals, set up budgets, and understand the proposal evaluation process. The training also emphasized Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) principles.
Certifications & Accreditations
UTM has implemented a rigorous quality monitoring system through the accreditation and certification of some of its institutions, ensuring education that meets international standards. (Six institutions certified ISO 21001, two institutions certified ISO 9001). The number of accredited institutions is increasing
Pedagogical Innovations
The university integrates innovative teaching methods that promote active learning, the use of digital platforms, and distance education, complementing in-person classes to ensure flexible access to quality education. This includes training sessions on educational technologies and digital pedagogy for various university community members in Tunisia, including decision-makers, technopedagogical support staff, and faculty members.
Tripartite Training: Tunisia - Japan - Africa
This tripartite training, supervised by UTM, is part of a quality assurance approach in higher education, aimed at strengthening regional expertise in medical technologies. Under the Tunisia-Japan-Africa partnership, the second session of training for African trainers, completed on October 23, 2024, at the Cité des Sciences in Tunis, certified 18 participants from eight African countries. They benefited from a theoretical and practical program in medical technology management, delivered by professors from the Higher Institute of Medical Technologies of Tunis and experts from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). This initiative reflects UTM’s commitment to promoting quality education and integrating advanced skills crucial to developing healthcare capacities in Africa.
International Arab Conference on Quality Assurance in Higher Education
The University of Tunis El Manar is honored to organize, in partnership with the Jordanian University of Ezzarka, the 11th Edition of the International Arab Conference on Quality Assurance in Higher Education, which will take place on November 8-9, 2023, at the Ramada Plaza Hotel in Gammarth. This conference will host a significant number of academic researchers from 16 Arab countries and aims to promote the culture of quality assurance and its practices within Arab universities. It is a peer-reviewed conference, with proceedings to be published in the Scopus database by an international publisher.
Promoting Lifelong Learning
UTM supports lifelong learning by offering a variety of continuing education programs, entrepreneurship initiatives, and specialized training for students and professionals:
- Continuing and Specialized Training: UTM offers programs such as project management certifications (PRINCE2 and PMP), entrepreneurship training, and specialization courses in technology and innovation. This initiative is supported by an agreement with CNAM Paris.
- Entrepreneurship Support: Initiatives like the student entrepreneur hub, innovation competitions (e.g., UTM INNOV held annually), and entrepreneurship coaching encourage students to develop skills beyond the traditional academic framework.
- University Pole for Technological Innovation (PUIT): The establishment of PUIT promotes research, innovation, and technology development among students and faculty.
Initiatives for a Healthy and Inclusive Learning Environment
Initiatives for a Healthy and Inclusive Learning Environment
Health and Well-Being Awareness
Health Awareness Video Capsules: UTM has created video capsules to raise awareness about preventive measures and promote a safe return to campus after the Covid-19 pandemic.
Taouhida Becheikh Health Center: Located on UTM’s campus, this center provides frontline health services to students, including medical consultations, psychological support, and emergency care. An annual survey evaluates the quality of care and gathers student feedback, which informs service adjustments. The center also participates in awareness campaigns on mental health, disease prevention, and overall well-being, fostering a university environment focused on student health and safety.
Cultural and Sports Activities
Cultural and Sports Activities: Events such as the Badminton Championship (in partnership with the national federation), Creative Theatre Day, and the Golden Company View Challenge (GCC) offer students opportunities to thrive in extracurricular settings, promoting holistic and balanced learning.
Initiatives for a Healthy and Inclusive Learning Environment
Initiatives for a Healthy and Inclusive Learning Environment
Digital Platforms: UTM has implemented advanced digital tools for exam management, data analysis, electronic document management, and process digitization. These initiatives modernize university management and enhance the quality of the educational experience for everyone. (Acquisition of an electronic document management system and a correspondence management system)