Tunisia: Students Banned from Leaving Schools During Breaks and Free Periods Starting October 1

Tunisia’s Ministry of Education has announced a decision banning students from leaving educational institutions during break times and free periods, effective October 1, 2026. The measure is part of a national program aimed at strengthening school safety and protecting students from various risks and harmful behaviors.

A nationwide measure covering all education levels

Zakaria Dassi, Director General of the International Centre for Training Trainers and Educational Innovation, said on Monday, September 28, 2026, that the decision is part of a joint national executive program designed to address emerging issues inside and around educational institutions.

The measure will apply nationwide and concern students at all levels of education, including primary schools, middle schools and secondary schools.

Protecting students from risks outside schools

According to Dassi, the main objective is to protect students’ physical and psychological safety and reduce the risks they may face outside school premises during breaks or periods without scheduled classes.

The plan specifically seeks to address risks related to violence, addiction and drugs, as well as other potentially harmful behaviors.

How will free periods be managed?

Speaking to Mosaïque FM, Dassi explained that the Ministry of Education already seeks to avoid free periods through its educational guidelines and timetabling arrangements. However, some gaps may occur because of unforeseen circumstances, particularly teacher absences.

The new approach will therefore not simply require students to remain inside schools. Their free periods will also be filled with useful and inclusive activities, including educational, cultural and awareness-raising programs.

Several government sectors involved

The program is based on a participatory approach involving several state institutions. Schools, middle schools and secondary schools will be able to host youth-center activity leaders, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Family and Women, health services and security authorities.

Activities will include educational and awareness sessions, along with workshops in areas such as theatre, cinema and cultural activities.

New guidelines to regulate free periods

The Ministry of Education is currently preparing explanatory and organizational guidelines to clarify how schools should manage free periods, whether they are permanently included in timetables or result from unforeseen circumstances such as teacher absences.

The implementation of the measure will be subject to monitoring to ensure that its objectives are achieved.

Dassi stressed that the priority of the new approach is to protect students and preserve the integrity of educational institutions while providing them with structured and meaningful activities during breaks and free periods.