LIFE for Relief and Development Sustains Higher Education in Syria

During the first quarter of 2025, Life for Relief and Development continued its work to sustain higher education in Syria amid ongoing humanitarian challenges. Through its higher education interventions, LIFE supported students with scholarships and educators, and academic institutions with training from January through March 2025, helping more than 21,000 beneficiaries remain connected to learning during a period of continued displacement, poverty, and infrastructure damage.

The humanitarian context in Syria remains severe. Large-scale displacement and returns have placed immense pressure on already fragile systems, while widespread poverty and damaged infrastructure continue to affect daily life. Schools and universities face overcrowding, shortages of qualified staff, and limited access to basic services such as electricity and clean water. As families struggle to meet essential needs, education is often at risk, making sustained support critical to prevent learning disruptions and long-term setbacks.

Despite these challenges, academic activities continued at Gaziantep University, where the second semester of the 2024–2025 academic year began on schedule in mid-January. Students returned to their lectures as planned, and the academic calendar progressed smoothly, including preparations for second-semester examinations. Ongoing coordination and monitoring helped maintain continuity and stability within the university environment.

Support for the University of Aleppo was also formalized for the academic year, focusing on strengthening core educational functions and supporting key academic activities. Coordination with university leadership continued throughout the quarter to prepare for implementation and ensure that interventions aligned with priority needs.

Student scholarships remained central to LIFE’s approach. Throughout the reporting period, students received consistent assistance to help them remain engaged in their studies despite difficult living conditions. In parallel, preparations began for training activities aimed at strengthening students’ skills and readiness for future academic and professional pathways.

LIFE’s education efforts extended beyond universities into public schools, where regular field visits and classroom observations supported teaching quality and student progress. Attendance improved significantly during the quarter, reflecting greater stability and sustained engagement. Progress also continued on the construction of a special needs school in Azaz, advancing access to inclusive education for children with disabilities.

Skills-based learning advanced through the 1000 Programmers project, with training sessions continuing across multiple locations. New courses were launched, and standardized entrance testing was introduced at Aleppo University and other sites, expanding access to practical, future-oriented skills for young people.

Overall, the first quarter of 2025 demonstrated that education can be preserved even in the most difficult circumstances. By supporting academic continuity, student engagement, and inclusive learning environments, LIFE for Relief and Development continues to help ensure that education remains a source of stability, resilience, and hope for communities across Syria.