Raising Awareness Today to Protect Tomorrow: ACTA-GM Engages at Gustave Eiffel School in Tunisia
In a global context marked by the rapid growth of e-commerce, the multiplication of digital platforms and the fast evolution of consumer habits, the fight against counterfeiting has become a major challenge not only for authorities and businesses, but also for consumers themselves. Younger generations, particularly exposed to purchases through social media and online marketplaces, have become one of the primary targets of illicit trade networks.
In response to this reality, ACTA-GM continues its commitment to awareness and education through concrete field initiatives. It is within this framework that the association carried out an intervention at Gustave Eiffel School in Tunisia as part of The Watchers Club, a regional educational programme designed to raise awareness among younger audiences about intellectual property, responsible consumption and the consequences of counterfeiting.
Held between March and April 2026, the initiative brought together students from different educational levels through interactive workshops specifically designed to make topics often perceived as technical or complex more accessible. The objective was clear: to explain in practical terms what counterfeiting is, understand its real-life consequences and provide students with the tools necessary to develop vigilance and critical thinking in their daily lives.
Today, counterfeiting no longer concerns luxury goods alone. It affects virtually every sector, including electronics, clothing, toys, cosmetics, medicines, digital content and even food products. Behind these counterfeit goods lie consequences that are often underestimated by the public: health risks, consumer safety concerns, significant economic losses for businesses, harm to innovation, as well as serious environmental and social impacts.
Through practical examples, simulations and participatory discussions, students explored the mechanisms used by illicit trade networks and learned how to identify suspicious products. The workshops also addressed the differences between authentic and counterfeit goods, the dangers of purchasing from unsecured platforms and the key warning signs to consider before buying online.
The educational approach developed through The Watchers Club programme is based on interaction and hands-on experience. Rather than limiting students to a passive role, ACTA-GM placed them at the centre of the workshops by transforming them into real “young investigators.” Participants were encouraged to analyse products, identify warning signs, examine packaging and labels, and detect inconsistencies that could indicate non-compliant or counterfeit goods.
This immersive methodology helped strengthen students’ critical thinking while making discussions highly engaging. Students quickly demonstrated strong analytical skills and genuine interest in the subjects discussed, particularly when linked to products they regularly encounter online or through social media.
Feedback collected following the sessions highlights the particularly positive impact of the initiative. According to evaluations conducted by teachers at the school, 100% of respondents considered that students clearly understood what counterfeiting is and the challenges associated with it. Teachers also praised the quality of discussions, the clarity of the content and the relevance of this awareness initiative in an environment where young people are increasingly exposed to misleading commercial offers.
Beyond the figures, teachers observed a genuine shift in awareness among students. Many demonstrated a stronger ability to question purchasing behaviours, identify potential risks and adopt a more critical perspective regarding products promoted online. Several students also expressed a desire to raise awareness among family members and friends, illustrating the multiplier effect such educational initiatives can generate.
This initiative confirms an essential reality: the fight against counterfeiting cannot be fully effective without strong prevention and awareness efforts. Educating tomorrow’s consumers has become a major strategic priority. By fostering an early culture of vigilance, responsibility and respect for innovation, it becomes possible to encourage safer and more responsible consumer behaviours.
Through this initiative in Tunisia, ACTA-GM reaffirms its commitment to developing sustainable educational programmes across Africa and the Greater Maghreb, in cooperation with schools, public authorities, institutions and partners committed to protecting intellectual property.
The Watchers Club programme will continue to evolve through new workshops, innovative educational tools, comics, audiovisual content and field initiatives aimed at further raising awareness among younger generations about the risks linked to counterfeiting and illicit trade.
ACTA-GM warmly thanks the teaching teams of Gustave Eiffel School, the facilitators, partners and students for their welcome, engagement and commitment throughout this initiative.
