Controversy Erupts Over Changes in Syrian School Curriculum

As the new school term approaches, lawmakers in Syria’s transitional government unveil a revised curriculum emphasizing Islamic teachings while erasing references to the Assad regime, igniting protests and concern among civil society activists about a lack of inclusivity in the decision-making process.

The recent revelation of significant changes to the school curriculum in Syria by the new Islamist-led authorities has provoked a wave of concern and opposition among various sectors of Syrian society. With the new academic term set to commence this Sunday, activists are already calling for protests to voice their discontent regarding these unilateral decisions that they believe do not represent the wider community.

The transitional government's education ministry shared the updated curriculum on social media, highlighting a transformative shift towards Islamic values. Notably, certain phrases have been replaced, such as changing "Defending the nation" to "Defending Allah," while references to the era of Bashar al-Assad have been conspicuously omitted from all subjects. This includes the removal of poems dedicated to both Bashar and his father, Hafez, from Arabic language courses.

Education Minister Nazir al-Qadri has attempted to downplay these changes, asserting that the curriculum will remain largely the same until specialized committees can conduct a thorough review and revision. Among the proposed revisions are the elimination of subjects that address Evolution and the Big Bang theory in the sciences. Additionally, materials depicting pre-Islamic deities and their statues, as well as the historical significance of figures like Queen Zenobia, have been minimized.

While some citizens have welcomed these changes, civil society activists, many of whom have chosen to return to Syria for the first time in years, have expressed alarm. They fear that without collective input from all societal factions, the rights and voices of diverse groups may be sidelined in the ongoing evolution of the nation. Activists are determined to assert their stance against any alterations to the education system or other state institutions that may arise without inclusive participation.

Despite promises from the new authorities for a National Dialogue Conference aimed at promoting a collaborative future, activists perceive the recent alterations to the curriculum as contradictory to the declaration of inclusivity. As tensions rise, the call for protests continues to amplify, signifying a crucial moment for civil society in post-Assad Syria.