Strengthening Board Capacity for Governance in Tunisia’s Public Enterprises

In a context of evolving governance expectations, the role of Board members in Tunisia’s public enterprises is becoming increasingly strategic. Strengthening their capacity to guide decisions, oversee performance, and ensure accountability is key to improving the effectiveness of public institutions.

To respond to this need, a Board Members Training Program for State-Owned Enterprises was implemented through a partnership between the Presidency of the Government, the National School of Administration, and the World Bank, with support from the TERI Umbrella Program.

The program brought together nearly 48 senior public officials from the Presidency of the Government, serving on boards of public enterprises and public institutions across several sectors. Delivered over several months, it combined practical modules on governance, financial oversight, risk management, and strategic decision-making, using a hands-on and case-based approach.

Building Momentum for More Effective Governance

Beyond the training itself, the initiative contributed to building a shared understanding of the roles and responsibilities of board members, while fostering a dynamic of continuous professional development.

Participant feedback indicates high levels of satisfaction, particularly regarding the relevance and quality of the training content (over 90%). Evaluations also indicate a strengthened understanding of governance frameworks, financial analysis, and risk oversight — supporting more informed and structured contributions within boards.

From Training to Practice: Supporting Better Decision-Making

Beyond satisfaction scores, the program has contributed to strengthening participants’ professional practice. Board members report a stronger grasp of their rights and responsibilities as administrators — as well as a clearer sense of how to exercise them in practice. Participants report being better equipped to engage meaningfully in board discussions, analyze financial and strategic information, and contribute to decision-making in a more structured and confident manner. This shift from knowledge to practice reflects the practical orientation of the program.

 Looking Ahead: Sustaining and Expanding the Initiative

The program concluded in February 2026 with a closing workshop bringing together participants and key stakeholders to reflect on lessons learned and identify next steps.

Building on this first phase, the initiative is expected to expand. Future cohorts will reach board members from a wider range of ministries, broadening the program's impact across the public sector. The approach will also evolve toward a hybrid model, integrating online resources to offer greater flexibility and accessibility to participants. These steps aim to support the institutionalization of governance capacity-building over the long term, while fostering continued peer exchange and the consolidation of governance practices across Tunisia’s public institutions.