China is gradually established as an academic destination for Tunisian youth. In 2017, about 346 Tunisian students already pursued a university course there. According to data from March 2024, the Tunisian community in China – students and young professionals combined – now exceeds the 650 people. Each year, between 60 and 70 new registered Join Chinese universities, reflecting an increasing interest in a teaching system perceived as open and competitive.
The reverse of a positive trend
This craze, hailed by the China Embassy in Tunis, also arouses drifts. Diplomatic representation deemed necessary to issue a public warning Against the practices of certain intermediaries who exploit increasing demand. These structures propose, for payment, “consulting services” for registration or request for scholarships, while these procedures are officially free.
The clear position of the embassy
In a press release published on its official page, the Embassy specifies:
“The Chinese Embassy in Tunis do not charge any fees for consultative services linked to studies or scholarships, and does not authorize any external entity to offer such paid services. »»
This recall highlights a well -known phenomenon in other academic destinations: the proliferation of false intermediaries taking advantage of the ignorance of procedures by students and their families.
Official channels to favor
Two sources are proof:
- The portal China campus (Campuschina.org), administered by the China Stock Exchange Council (CSC).
- The site of Tunisian Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (mes.tn), which relays the Tuniso-Chinese exchange programs.
The rise of the academic flow to China illustrates the densification of bilateral relations. But it also reveals an accompaniment vacuum, which some exploit. Behind the positive integration figures hides a question: how to protect Tunisian students from fraudulent practices, while promoting educational cooperation?
Read also: Tunisia – China: a strategic partnership at the service of students and the national economy
