Students in Suwayda province, Syria, are unable to continue their education in schools and universities due to deep political and social tensions between the Islamic government after Assad and Druze leaders who are close to Israel.
This situation reflects the deep wounds and ongoing instability in this province. Last year, hundreds of Druze were killed in sectarian violence related to government forces, and Israel also carried out military attacks on Syria, claiming to defend minorities.
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Educational Challenges and Fear of Returning to Government-Controlled Areas
Maram Abuhamra, a student who dreams of studying architecture in Aleppo, has returned to Suwayda for over a year and fears returning to government-controlled areas. She says, "Every student dreams of becoming an engineer, doctor, or artist, but instead, sorrow, fear, and hatred dominate their lives."
The city of Suwayda, home to many Druze, is now under the control of forces loyal to Sheikh Hikmat al-Hajri, who referred to his community as "part of the Israeli state" in a video in August. While Israeli officials speak of supporting Syrian Druze, Syrian President Ahmad al-Shara also emphasizes efforts to rebuild his country's relations with the West.
Lack of Trust in Government Promises and Issues with Conducting Exams
Many Druze do not trust President al-Shara's promises to protect their rights and refer to past violent events. Syrian authorities canceled high school and university entrance exams in Suwayda last year due to this violence. While government forces have withdrawn from most areas of Suwayda, al-Hajri has also prohibited their return.
This year, only 150 out of 13,700 students in Suwayda were able to participate in the exams, while the rest remain in limbo. Despite Damascus's offer to send observers to Suwayda to oversee the exams, some Druze view this move as an attempt to re-establish government forces.
While the situation in Suwayda remains critical, agreements made last year between Syria, Jordan, and the United States to resolve disputes in Suwayda have reportedly made no progress, according to the United Nations.
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