Kurdish Administration and Syrian Government Education Ministry Discuss Exam Mechanisms with UNICEF Mediation
By Kardo Roj
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) held discussions with Syria’s Ministry of Education on Thursday regarding the mechanisms for conducting secondary and preparatory certificate exams, aiming to establish a fair and accessible process for students across the region.
The meeting, facilitated by UNICEF, marks a step toward addressing educational challenges in northeast Syria, where governance is divided between the AANES and the Syrian government. According to Khalaf al-Matar, Co-chair of the AANES Education Authority, the talks focused on ensuring equal opportunities for students in all regions and exploring methods to improve exam accessibility.
Al-Matar stated that the discussions included various aspects of Syria’s education landscape, with a particular focus on the situation in AANES-administered areas. He emphasized that the goal is to establish a transparent and organized exam system that accommodates students from different backgrounds while maintaining academic integrity.
One key issue raised in the meeting was the registration process for students in AANES-held regions. “Registration for students in northeast Syria has not yet opened. We are working with the Ministry of Education in Damascus to develop an electronic system that facilitates enrollment,” al-Matar said. He added that extending the registration period was also discussed to prevent students from missing the opportunity to take their exams.
UNICEF’s involvement in the discussions reflects an effort to ensure that education remains a priority in Syria’s complex political and security landscape. The organization has been actively engaged in supporting educational initiatives across the country, particularly in conflict-affected regions.
Despite these discussions, the broader political context continues to pose challenges. The AANES, which governs a large portion of northeast Syria with security provided by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), has sought greater recognition for its educational system. However, the lack of formal accreditation for AANES-issued certificates remains an obstacle for students seeking higher education or employment opportunities outside the region.
While the talks signal a possible step toward cooperation between the AANES and the Syrian government in the educational sector, it remains unclear whether a long-term agreement can be reached. The need for a unified examination process is particularly pressing, as students from northeast Syria often face difficulties when transitioning to universities in government-controlled areas.
Al-Matar reaffirmed that further meetings would take place to finalize the details of the exam procedures. He stressed that official announcements regarding registration and exam dates would be made through AANES-affiliated education institutions to ensure clarity for students and their families.
As discussions continue, the outcome of these negotiations will be closely watched, particularly by students and educators in northeast Syria, who seek stability and equal access to education despite ongoing political divisions.