Regional Disparities and Determinants of Graduate Employability in Tunisia

The professional integration of higher education graduates represents a critical issue for developing economies, particularly in Tunisia, where persistent regional disparities affect the employment of qualified youth. This study examines the determinants of graduates' integration into the labor market, taking into account individual characteristics, educational attainment, and regional disparities. Using secondary data from a national survey of 651 graduates and estimating a probit model, the findings reveal that gender and age significantly influence employment outcomes, with male and older graduates demonstrating a higher probability of integration. The analysis further indicates that the impact of educational attainment varies: specialized training such as engineering or doctoral degrees significantly enhances employability, whereas holding a master’s degree does not provide a substantial advantage over a bachelor’s degree. Moreover, the study highlights pronounced territorial inequalities, as graduates from Greater Tunis and the Central-East regions exhibit better integration prospects compared to those from interior regions. These results underscore the need for targeted public policies aimed at reducing spatial disparities and promoting equitable access to employment opportunities for all graduates.