HTS demands gender separation in Syria’s Idlib schools
IDLIB, Syria (North Press) – As the schools’ finale exams approach, the Ministry of Education of the Salvation Government, the political wing of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS, formerly al-Nusra Front), announced on Tuesday strict instructions for elementary and high school students.
In a circular sent by the ministry to the directorates of education and all private educational institutions, the ministry obliged them to “remove drawings – that are not in line with Sharia – on the schools’ walls.”
The circular stressed on “dressing in Islamic-style in elementary and high schools, the complete separation between male and female students, and prohibiting students from bringing cellphones.”
“Avoid inappropriate shows that violate Sharia Law on the social media platforms of your (the directorates) institutions such as the Facebook page and others,” the circular read.
It also ordered the students to stay away from “fashion that violates the teachings of our religion, customs and traditions.”
Any breach by any given institution would subject it to legal liabilities, according to the circular.