As the new academic term approaches, the recently formed Islamist-led government in Syria has sparked unrest over significant changes to the national school curriculum. The transition to an education system infused with Islamic ideology appears to have occurred without societal input, prompting fears of an erasure of diverse historical narratives.
New Curriculum Under Islamist Authorities Raises Alarms in Syria
New Curriculum Under Islamist Authorities Raises Alarms in Syria
Concerns are mounting as Syrian authorities implement a new school curriculum with an Islamist slant, leading to potential civil unrest.
The Education Ministry, led by Nazir al-Qadri, has announced adjustments that replace secular phrases with religious terminology, such as changing "Defending the nation" to "Defending Allah." Additionally, the curriculum will remove references to the Assad regime, and scientific theories like evolution and the Big Bang will no longer be taught. Other historical figures, such as the Roman-era Queen Zenobia, are being marginalized in this restructuring of educational content.
Al-Qadri asserted that the core elements of the curriculum will remain consistent until further review by specialized committees, despite the drastic changes introduced. While some citizens have welcomed these revisions, activists have expressed alarm, fearing the absence of communal dialogue in educational matters.
Calls for protests have emerged as civil society groups seek to address the unilateral nature of these changes, which contradict the transitional government’s claims of inclusivity and national dialogue involving various segments of Syrian society. Such protests aim to affirm the importance of freedom and participation in defining Syria's future, particularly after the ousting of Bashar al-Assad's longstanding rule.
The upcoming National Dialogue Conference is expected to address the concerns raised by these activists, as voices from all walks of life strive to contribute to the country's rebuilding efforts.
Global Education
Syria
Al-Qadri asserted that the core elements of the curriculum will remain consistent until further review by specialized committees, despite the drastic changes introduced. While some citizens have welcomed these revisions, activists have expressed alarm, fearing the absence of communal dialogue in educational matters.
Calls for protests have emerged as civil society groups seek to address the unilateral nature of these changes, which contradict the transitional government’s claims of inclusivity and national dialogue involving various segments of Syrian society. Such protests aim to affirm the importance of freedom and participation in defining Syria's future, particularly after the ousting of Bashar al-Assad's longstanding rule.
The upcoming National Dialogue Conference is expected to address the concerns raised by these activists, as voices from all walks of life strive to contribute to the country's rebuilding efforts.
Global Education
Syria
