• Participants represent communities across Tunisia, with nearly 70% coming from outside of the capital area, and more than 30% from the interior governorates along the Algerian and Libyan borders.
• Since the program launch, Tunisia UGRAD participants have contributed on average more than 8,000 internship hours to U.S. businesses and organizations.
• Employers look for a series of key competencies in young employees. Nearly 100% of students completing the program express that they’ve developed these key “soft skills”, including job search skills, problem-solving skills, time management, stress-management, and teamwork.

• Participants increase their academic, professional, and leadership skills through full-time academic study, professional internships, and community service activities.
• Participants are better positioned to contribute actively to Tunisia’s development through increased workforce skills in their fields of study, increased life and leadership skills, and the drive to innovate.
• Participants create sustainable links with Americans and between Tunisian and American communities and increase their cross-cultural understanding through cultural activities, country presentations, engaging with U.S. communities, and follow-on activities.

• Undergraduate study and skills building: Participants attend a year-long, academic program at U.S. universities and colleges. Throughout the program, participants receive tailored support in developing and meeting professional and academic goals and improving their soft skills.
• Community service: Students contribute a minimum of 20 hours of community service work during the semester. Students may volunteer in a variety of settings, such as after-school tutoring, community fundraisers, and disaster relief.
• Internships: Fellows complete part-time internships, gaining experience in the American workplace and developing relationships with local businesses, government offices, nonprofit organizations, and other institutions.
• Alumni engagement: Alumni continue to develop their workforce skills, support innovation and entrepreneurship, and maintain networks forged through the program.

E-mail: tunisiaugrad@irex.org