New Study Reveals Controversial Syrian Textbook Guidelines: Erasing Science and Women’s Contributions

A recent report by IMPACT-se dove into changes made to Syria’s educational directives as of January 1, 2025. These new guidelines aim to reshape the curriculum under the newly installed government.

The report indicates an increased focus on religious content in classrooms. Secular scientific topics are being removed, women are disappearing from educational materials, and lessons now promote martyrdom as a noble pursuit. In fact, some features from the previous Assad-era curriculum, such as anti-Western views and antisemitic elements, have been retained, suggesting a continuation of certain harmful ideologies.

The findings provide a detailed look at how education is evolving in Syria. For example, changes are found in various subjects, including history and science. A first-grade science chapter previously titled “The Gift(s) of Nature” is being changed to “The Gift(s) from Allah.” This shift reinforces a religious framework, introducing students to Islamic values early on.

Further changes include the removal of an eighth-grade biology chapter on evolution, which contrasts with the previous secular approach. These revisions highlight a departure from the secular policies of the Assad regime, steering toward a more conservative, religious vision.

Interestingly, the new guidelines seem to suggest a diplomatic shift toward Turkiye while continuing to view Western nations with suspicion. For instance, there is a move to soften the historical portrayal of the Ottoman Empire, using the term “Ottoman regime” instead of “occupation” in textbooks.

The changes also aim to erase any references that may glorify the Assad regime. Educational materials are being updated to remove phrases and lessons related to the “defunct” regime. For instance, a first-grade chemistry book will now feature the current government’s flag instead of Assad’s.

When it comes to gender representation, the situation appears to be regressing. Many important women from history are being left out of textbooks, including figures like Nazik al-Abid and Queen Zenobia. Additionally, illustrations of women not wearing hijabs are being removed, reflecting stricter religious standards.

Regarding the depiction of Jews and Christians, significant changes are being implemented. References that once referred generally to “those straying from goodness” are now explicitly naming Jews and Christians, introducing young students to an environment of religious prejudice.

Notable antisemitic content persists, with the portrayal of Judaism in negative light. Even discussions about Israel are being reshaped. The October 1973 conflict is now labeled merely as “the 1973 war,” which shifts the focus away from the previous narrative of liberation.

Despite these modifications, substantial anti-Israeli sentiment continues. Textbooks still portray individuals like Dalal al-Mughrabi—responsible for a deadly attack on Israeli civilians—as heroes, further entrenching hostile attitudes.

In conclusion, the report raises alarms about the future of education in Syria. IMPACT-se’s CEO, Marcus Sheff, expressed concern that these changes suggest a growing Islamization of the curriculum. The ongoing updates indicate a troubling direction that does not align with principles of peace and tolerance.

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Bashar Assad,Syria,education,Middle East