Syria's War-Torn Schools Struggle to Rebuild as Children Return to Class

Families displaced for years by Syria's civil war are returning home, but the elementary school in Maar Shamarin is a stark reminder of the conflict's devastating impact. The school operates without windows, desks, or running water, with students sitting on thin blankets in classrooms with broken windows and bullet-scarred walls. The building was looted of nearly everything, leaving the principal to worry about the school's readiness for winter. Across Syria, 40% of schools remain destroyed, and in Idlib alone, only about 10% of damaged schools have been rehabilitated.

Key Takeaways:

• Nearly a year after President Bashar Assad's ousting, hundreds of schools in Syria remain in ruins due to the civil war.
• The elementary school in Maar Shamarin, which has reopened, lacks basic amenities like windows, desks, and running water.
• 40% of schools in Syria remain destroyed, with only 10% of damaged schools rehabilitated in Idlib.
• The rebuilding of schools is a long-term process that requires significant funding and resources.
• Millions of children in Syria remain out of school due to a lack of resources, including books and teachers.
• UNICEF and local authorities are working to rebuild schools and provide temporary classrooms, teacher training, and psychosocial support.
• Education is crucial for healing war trauma, and children need safe schools where they can receive support and learn.

Statistics:

• 40% of schools in Syria remain destroyed (Deputy Education Minister Youssef Annan).
• Only 10% of damaged schools have been rehabilitated in Idlib (Deputy Education Minister Youssef Annan).
• 450 students attend classes at Maar Shamarin Elementary School.
• Millions of children in Syria remain out of school.
• The new school year began in September with an emergency education plan.

Sources:

• HT Digital Content Services
• The New Nation