Latifa al-Droubi, wife of President Ahmad al-Sharaa, participated in the opening of the 12th World Innovation Summit for Education (WISE) in Doha, joining leaders and experts from educational institutions in more than 150 countries.
A Vision for Syria’s Youth
In her address, Droubi outlined a forward-looking vision centered on Syria’s young generation. “When I speak about my dreams for Syrian youth, I am not speaking of personal wishes, but of a vision for a homeland that rises with its youth,” she said. “I am speaking of the vision of a generation that has suffered and persevered under the most difficult circumstances.”
She emphasized her hope for “a generation that is educated and aware, capable of reading reality and understanding its changes rationally and objectively. A generation that does not merely imitate the achievements of others, but is capable of creating miracles and innovating ideas worthy of the nation’s renaissance.”
Droubi stressed the importance of balancing heritage and modernity, using Syria’s cultural identity as a bridge toward the future. Education, she affirmed, is the primary means of empowering individuals to meet challenges: “My dream is not far away, as long as Syrian youth possess the will, which is more important than all circumstances.”
High-Level Meetings and Focus on Empowerment
During her visit, Droubi held high-profile meetings with Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education and Society Development, and Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice-Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation. Discussions focused on cooperation in educational and cultural fields, including expertise exchange, curriculum development, and youth empowerment.
Droubi also took part in a panel discussion on charting new paths to empower children and youth globally, alongside the wife of Lebanon’s president, Mrs. Nayemat Aoun, and the wife of Nigeria’s president, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu. The session addressed the role of education in expanding opportunities and strengthening resilience among the most vulnerable groups.
A Symbolic Presence and Global Context
Droubi’s participation carries both cultural and political significance, underscoring Syria’s desire to re-engage with global discussions on shaping the future of education. Her role highlights the evolving position of Syrian women in public life and reflects the new administration’s commitment to promoting women’s empowerment and enhancing their regional and international presence.
Commenting on the significance of the Syrian delegation’s attendance, technical expert and digital security trainer Yahya al-Sabih said it represents an important opportunity. “It is not only important on a political level, but also to reposition the education file as a fundamental pillar for building Syria’s future,” he stated, noting that participation in global education forums opens doors for partnerships and the transfer of expertise essential for sustainable development.
The WISE 12 Summit, a leading international platform for educational advancement, is being held under the theme “People First: Human Values at the Heart of Education Systems.” The agenda explores how education can remain resilient, inclusive, and relevant amid rapid AI-driven transformations.
