Major Overhaul of Curriculum Announced
The Ministry of Education in Syria, led by newly appointed Minister Nazir Mohammad al-Qadri, unveiled comprehensive reforms to the national curriculum on Wednesday, sparking widespread controversy across the country. The revisions, which impact all educational levels, include significant changes to subjects such as Religious Studies, History, and Philosophy. Among the most contentious changes are the removal of references to Syria’s historical connections with polytheistic religions, the rephrasing or deletion of texts, and alterations to textbook images and illustrations.
The ministry has also eliminated content associated with the Assad regime and revised sections on topics such as the Ottoman Empire, which had been previously described as “the brutal Ottoman authority.” Notably, portions of Chinese philosophical thought are slated for deletion, with the remaining content heavily rephrased. The English language curriculum has also undergone extensive modifications, with sections rewritten or removed. One of the most drastic changes is the suspension of the “National Education” subject for the current academic year, citing the presence of “misleading information” allegedly promoting propaganda of the ousted Assad regime. In its place, Religious Education grades will now contribute to students’ overall scores in their General Secondary Certificate.
Minister al-Qadri defended the changes, stating they aim to rectify misinformation and promote an accurate interpretation of Islamic education. He emphasized the importance of aligning the curriculum with classical tafsir (interpretation) texts while assuring that committees would audit the changes for accuracy.
Public Outrage and Rising Backlash
The announcement has triggered a wave of criticism among Syrians, with many taking to social media to voice their opposition. Critics, including US academic Joshua Landis, argue that the reforms mark a shift from a nationalist to a more Islamist perspective of Syrian history. Syrian journalist Hussam Hammoud also expressed concern, suggesting the amendments reflect a distinctly religious tone.
Social media platforms have become a hub for dissent, with calls for nationwide protests against the curriculum changes circulating widely. Reports indicate that protests are being organized to demand al-Qadri’s resignation. Despite the backlash, the Ministry of Education has maintained that the changes are necessary to address inaccuracies embedded during the Assad regime’s tenure.
Concerns for National Identity and Minority Rights
The curriculum reforms have reignited fears about the implications for Syria’s cultural and historical identity, particularly concerning minority groups. Critics worry that the new direction could marginalize non-Muslim communities and dilute the country’s rich, diverse heritage. In response to these concerns, Syria’s de facto leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, recently met with senior Christian leaders to reassure them of the new administration’s commitment to protecting minority rights.
Amidst the growing tension, al-Qadri clarified that the current school curricula remain in place until specialized committees finalize the revisions. While his statement sought to address public concerns, many Syrians remain apprehensive about the potential long-term effects of these sweeping changes on the nation’s education system and identity.
