The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has introduced sweeping measures to stem the rise of sectarian rhetoric to ensure the safety of all students in Syrian universities.
Zero Tolerance for Hate Speech or Incitement
In an official statement, the ministry announced that it prohibits the publication, circulation or promotion—whether verbal, written or digital—of any content inciting hatred, sectarianism or racism. The directive applies to all components of the educational system, including students, faculty, and administrative staff, with violations subject to criminal, civil and disciplinary penalties. In some cases, the punishment could include final expulsion or referral to the judiciary.
The decision follows growing reports of tension on campuses, including incidents in Homs, where students from Suwayda alleged they were attacked based on their regional affiliation.
Minister of Higher Education Marwan al-Halabi described the atmosphere on university campuses as “normal and calm” following the circulation of footage online showing students in Suwayda leaving campus. The video was later confirmed to be old and unrelated to recent events. Nevertheless, the ministry acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and took executive measures to enforce its directives. University presidents, deans, and campus directors were instructed to monitor and report any violations, ensuring that campuses remain free from incitement and division.
Consultative Meeting with Representatives from Suwayda
The policy’s roots trace back to a high-level meeting between the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Higher Education, and a delegation of community leaders from Suwayda, including Governor Mustafa al-Bakour. The gathering addressed student safety and ways to facilitate continued education for displaced students. According to the Ministry of Interior, the discussions resulted in a multi-point agreement to enhance campus security and academic continuity.
Key measures include the formation of student monitoring groups within universities to coordinate with authorities on addressing inappropriate behavior, the criminalization of sectarian discourse, and the development of remote learning options for displaced graduate students. The ministry also pledged to compensate those who missed coursework due to unrest.
Minister Halabi, speaking after the meeting, reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting Syria’s diverse academic community. “Our universities must remain beacons of thought and protectors of the diversity of which they are proud,” he said, according to a post by Minister of Information Hamza Mustafa.
While government officials maintain that the situation is stabilizing, the ministry’s directive has received broad support online, with many calling for similar policies to be enacted across other public institutions. Activists emphasized that ensuring civil peace on campus is critical to safeguarding education during turbulent times.
