In recent years, the landscape of higher education in Syria has faced significant challenges due to the war that devastated infrastructure, disrupted educational systems, and displaced millions of people, leaving a generation with limited access to quality education. In response to these challenges, Turkey has taken a proactive approach by establishing Turkish universities in Syria, aiming to provide educational opportunities and contribute to the region’s reconstruction.
The first Turkish university was established in 2018 in the northern city of Afrin, followed by additional campuses in other regions such as Aleppo and Idlib. These institutions offer a range of programs, including engineering, medicine, humanities, and social sciences, with curricula designed to meet international standards.
In mid-May, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Marwan al-Halabi and President of the Turkish Council of Higher Education, Erol Özvar signed a joint cooperation agreement in the field of science and research, developing a future vision for establishing a joint university, introducing artificial intelligence, and exchanging expertise and academic programs
In his speech during the opening ceremony of the 2025-2026 academic year at the Black Sea Technical University in Trabzon, northern Turkey, Özvar announced the Turkish-Syrian Friendship University will soon be established in Damascus, and the agreement to establish it will be signed in the coming days, noting that the Black Sea Technical University will participate in supporting its establishment and contributing to its construction phases. Adding that plans are underway to open a branch of the university in Aleppo.
A Step Towards Educational Development
The presence of Turkish universities fosters cultural exchange between Turkey and Syria. It allows students to experience different educational methodologies and perspectives while promoting understanding and collaboration between the two nations.
Education is a crucial factor in rebuilding economies, by training skilled professionals in various fields, these universities contribute to the development of a workforce that help rebuild Syria’s economy in the post-war era.
The initiative to open Turkish universities in Syria is part of Turkey’s strategy to enhance its influence in the region and support the Syrian population as well as part of the recently improved relations between Syria and Turkey.
