Curriculum Reforms in Syria
The Syrian Ministry of Education, under the new administration, has announced extensive curriculum reforms across all educational levels. Led by Education Minister Nazir Mohammad al-Qadri, these reforms include significant revisions to historical, religious, and ideological content in the curriculum.
Among the changes, references to Syria’s historical connections with polytheistic religions have been removed from history textbooks, as well as phrases describing the Ottoman Empire as the “brutal Ottoman authority.” Additionally, the Ministry of Education announced the cancellation of the “National Education” subject for the current academic year. The Ministry stated that this subject was previously used as a propaganda tool by the former administration and that its removal would allow students to receive a more impartial education. Grades for this subject will now be replaced by those from Islamic or Christian Religious Education classes.
Minister al-Qadri emphasized that the reforms aim to “correct inaccuracies in the curriculum and provide students with a more comprehensive education.”
The current government has emphasized that these reforms will not violate minority rights and that an inclusive education policy will be maintained. In this context, Syria’s de facto leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, met with Christian community leaders to reassure them that minority rights will be protected and that the reforms aim to ensure equal access to education for all students.