In a KIWi policy paper published today, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) outlines approaches for an internationally coordinated effort towards the potential reconstruction of the Syrian higher education sector. Universities can – even under the current circumstances – make an important contribution to stability, economic development and long-term social reconciliation. The DAAD is also launching its own initial measures to support the professional development of Syrian higher education staff. Further measures depend on an improvement in the security situation in the region.

“The situation in Syria remains fragile and characterised by uncertainty. At the same time, the tense security situation in the region is contributing to further volatility. Against this backdrop, we believe it is important to identify prospects for the reconstruction of this country, which has been severely scarred by civil war, that are feasible even under current conditions. The re-establishment of an efficient and internationally connected higher education system can create an important prerequisite for further reconstruction,” emphasised DAAD President Joybrato Mukherjee. “Education and science can strengthen trust and open up opportunities, contribute to social understanding and promote economic prospects. The stabilisation and reconstruction of Syria therefore also begin in the lecture theatre – and require reliable international partnerships in the long term.”

Destroyed structures – and existing potential

After more than a decade of armed conflict, Syria faces enormous structural challenges following the end of the civil war. The policy paper by the DAAD Centre of Excellence for International Science and Research Cooperation (KIWi) analyses the current situation of the Syrian higher education sector: It suffers from scarce resources, partially destroyed infrastructure, massive brain drain, and shortcomings in governance and quality assurance. On a positive note, the paper highlights several functioning universities, a strong focus on education within society, and a committed academic diaspora.

Skills development, networking and institutional reconstruction

On this basis, the DAAD outlines short-, medium- and long-term options for action on two levels: the targeted training and networking of students, lecturers and university staff, and support for the gradual reconstruction of sustainable higher education structures. The paper also contains proposals for scholarship programmes, further training and exchange schemes, as well as institutional partnerships between Syrian and German universities and other universities in the European Union – subject to a positive development of the framework conditions in Syria.

Measures for training and cooperation

With funding from the Federal Foreign Office, the DAAD is simultaneously launching its own initial measures. Plans include funding opportunities for the individual training and networking of Syrian university lecturers, as well as the initiation of cooperation and further training programmes aimed at renewing university curricula and enhancing academic and university management. The DAAD and its member universities bring to bear many years of experience in academic reconstruction in crisis and post-conflict countries. The implementation of these measures depends on an end to the current fighting in the region. 

Reconstruction as a strategic interest for Germany

“It is in Germany’s interest to support the development of an effective higher education system in Syria in order to contribute to the long-term stabilisation of the country and the development of the region,” said DAAD President Joybrato Mukherjee.