University students in northwest Syria are facing significant challenges due to the lack of international recognition of their degrees, which jeopardizes their academic futures. The ongoing conflict and displacement have created a dire situation for nearly 50,000 students in the region, who are struggling to find job opportunities amid a harsh economic landscape.
The University of Idlib, established in 2015, has become a critical institution for higher education in opposition-controlled areas. With 20 colleges and 7 institutes, it serves approximately 25,000 students. However, the lack of legal recognition for their degrees poses a significant barrier to their future employment prospects, forcing many to reconsider their plans for migration and further education.
Despite the high tuition fees, which range from $150 to $300 annually, students express concerns about their affordability given the challenging living conditions. The funding for these universities primarily comes from student tuition, as external financial support remains limited. Students like Heba Al-Hamad and Alaa Al-Shawa highlight the urgency of obtaining degree recognition to ensure their hard-earned qualifications hold value beyond the borders of northwest Syria.
As the number of students continues to rise, the infrastructure of these educational institutions struggles to keep pace with demand. While some departments are well-equipped, others suffer from inadequate facilities, which hampers the quality of education. The Higher Education Council is striving to improve academic standards and recognition, but the journey toward achieving full legal acknowledgment of their degrees remains ongoing.
In the face of these adversities, students are exploring various employment avenues, with many considering careers in relief organizations or government positions, although salaries are meager. Medical and engineering graduates may find better prospects due to a pressing need for skilled professionals in these fields, particularly in reconstruction efforts in the region.
