”I would like to take the 9th grade degree to achieve my dreams,” says Majd. In spite of being displaced, Majd is determined to take the final exam and go to high school.
"Despite the conflict, children across Syria are now sitting their end-of-year exams. We call on all parties to the conflict to ensure that students can safely take their exams. Through education, Syria's children and youth can contribute to building a brighter future for their country," says Thomas White, NRC’s Syria Response Director.
The 9th grade exams mark the end of basic education for Syria’s children and allows students to go on to secondary school (high school). At the end of secondary school, students sit the 12th grade national exams which are a pre-requisite for college/university applications as well as professional career pathways. However, the war in Syria has made it difficult for students to attend their final exams in many parts of the country, particularly for those who have been displaced or who are affected by the ongoing fighting.
"Education is my future. If I get education, I will get a future and a life," says Ahmed, a 12th grade displaced student who is determined to pass his exams and study political science at university.
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Many children drop out
1.75 million children are currently out of school in Syria, and an additional 1.35 million are at risk of dropping out. Fears related to safety and security, daily challenges resulting from forced displacement and financial pressure on families are major factors contributing to students dropping out of school.
”Following my displacement from Nishabya, I was out of school for two months. I was worried that I would not be able to continue my education,” says Bashar.
Today, Bashar is happy to be back at school.
Following my displacement from Nishabya, I was out of school for two months. I was worried that I would not be able to continue my education.Bashar, Syrian schoolboy
Syria’s future
Giving Syrian children the opportunity to learn is key for Syria´s future. Children and youth make up a large portion of Syria’s total population, they have the potential to significantly contribute to their country’s future.
Many children cannot remember a life without war. The school should provide them with a safe space away from violence and destruction.
”The path to peace must pass through education, ” says Mousa, a Syrian teacher.
