Tunisia is committing to a digital revolution by adopting a national strategy for artificial intelligence (AI) that targets priority sectors with a direct impact on the daily lives of citizens. These sectors include health, agriculture, energy, transport, and digital administration. By promoting this strategy, the country aims to strengthen its digital sovereignty while improving services for citizens.
Tunisia: An integrated approach to digital health
During a recent national conference in Tunis, the Minister of Communication Technologies, Sofien Hemissi, emphasized that the digital health sector is a strategic priority. This includes support for medical diagnostics, the establishment of telemedicine services, and epidemiological monitoring. Tunisia also plans to launch a digital hospital project, designed as a model of collaboration between academia, the healthcare system, and the private sector. This initiative aims to leverage AI to optimize healthcare and respond effectively to citizens’ expectations.
Agriculture as a key sector for improved food security
Agriculture is another priority area according to the national strategy, where AI and big data analysis play a fundamental role. Through analytical techniques and predictive modeling, Tunisia seeks to enhance its food and water security. The minister announced the creation of a new version of the National Water Observatory, which will enable real-time monitoring of the situation of hydraulic resources. This project involves the commitment of various stakeholders in the water system to ensure effective resource management.
Renewable energy and smart mobility
Regarding renewable energies, the national strategy emphasizes the development of a smart management of electrical networks. This involves supporting transport and smart mobility, with the goal of improving services while building trust between citizens and public institutions. This approach is essential for enabling an efficient transition to a sustainable and digital economy.
Digital transformation and innovation axes
The national vision for digital transformation and artificial intelligence is based on four essential axes. First, human capital is at the heart of this strategy, with a need to rethink training programs to integrate AI and data science. Second, research and innovation play a crucial role, requiring strengthened cooperation between universities, research centers, and businesses. National centers of excellence in applied AI will be created to promote this momentum.
Governance and regulatory framework for a reliable digital economy
Another fundamental point is governance and the development of regulatory frameworks that promote responsible use of AI. Protecting data and privacy is crucial for ensuring a successful transition to a digital economy. Recently, it was also emphasized that the legal framework must ensure the country’s digital sovereignty while instilling the necessary trust in new technologies.
The crucial role of engineers in the national strategy
The national AI strategy highlights that human capital, particularly engineers, are central to digital transformation. These professionals are called to evolve and play various roles such as designing AI systems and creating innovative startups. According to the president of the Tunisian Order of Engineers, Mohsen Gharssi, Tunisian engineers must participate in the development of public policies and contribute to formulating solutions adapted to today’s technological challenges.
A national debate on the AI strategy
The organization of the seminar on artificial intelligence aims to bring together various stakeholders, from officials to experts, to discuss the challenges related to digital transformation in Tunisia. Training, digital entrepreneurship, and digital sovereignty are some of the topics on the agenda, with the goal of laying the groundwork for fruitful cooperation for the future.
To explore further the benefits of artificial intelligence in other contexts, read interesting articles such as on the integration of AI in interactive video, blockchain for increased transparency, or digital assets through blockchain. Additionally, discover how AI is reinventing art in this article on the impact of AI on art and how it improves contract security with blockchain technology.
