Suwayda province in southern Syria is facing a development which has raised concerns about access to education and freedom of movement. Syrian authorities announced armed groups operating under the National Guard umbrella and affiliated with Hikmat al-Hijri have completely closed the Suwayda-Damascus road, preventing hundreds of students from traveling to Damascus and Rural Damascus to sit for their 2026 basic and secondary education examinations.
The road closure has affected students preparing for some of the most important examinations of their academic careers. Families and local officials warn continued restrictions could jeopardize months of preparation and place additional pressure on students already facing challenging circumstances.
Reports of Students Turned Back
According to local sources, members of the National Guard stationed at the Umm al-Zaytoun checkpoint stopped buses carrying students, ordering them to return to their villages. The groups reportedly justified the measure by citing “security concerns” and fears for “student safety.” Rumors were circulated claiming the road faced threats from sniper fire and “possible military attacks.” Syrian officials rejected those claims.
Qutaiba Azzam, director of media relations in Suwayda, said movement along the route remains safe and accused those spreading the reports of attempting to intimidate students and their families. Azzam stated official transportation buses designated for examination candidates have been arriving at the Matuna checkpoint empty because students are being prevented from continuing their journey.
Authorities Seek Alternatives
In response to the situation, Syrian authorities introduced measures intended to ensure students can still complete their examinations. Suwayda Governor Mustafa al-Bakour announced the provincial administration would cover transportation costs for students traveling to and from examination centers under official supervision.
The decision follows a directive issued by the Ministry of Education in mid-May transferring examination centers for Suwayda students to Damascus and Rural Damascus. Authorities said the move became necessary because current conditions make it impossible to conduct the examinations inside the province.
Despite these arrangements, officials argue continued interference with student transportation threatens to undermine efforts to protect the academic year. Over 832,000 students across Syria are expected to participate in this year’s exams.
Security Challenges Remain
The dispute comes amid ongoing tensions in southern Syria. Suwayda has remained under a ceasefire agreement since July 2025 following deadly clashes between Bedouin and Druze communities. Syrian authorities say they have continued to facilitate humanitarian assistance and evacuation operations under the terms of the truce. Officials have also accused armed groups affiliated with Hijri of violating the ceasefire and targeting military positions.
Since the fall of Assad’s regime in December 2024, the government declared restoring security, strengthening state institutions, and bringing weapons under state control remain central objectives. Authorities maintain that ensuring stability and protecting access to education are essential parts of the country’s broader recovery efforts.
