In Syria, over 2 million children are currently out of school. 14 years of conflict have left thousands of schools damaged and unsafe, and an education system in ruins.
This summer, working with our partner Abjad Initiative — and with your support — we have restored the infrastructure of Zamalka Primary School in rural Damascus, and in turn restored learning opportunities for hundreds of children. Education is an essential pathway to recovery, and we are proud that Zamalka Primary School is not only a place where children can now learn safely, but also a place where they are building the confidence and skills needed for a brighter future, beyond conflict.
It is estimated that the conflict in Syria destroyed or damaged at least 7000 schools, with this having a devastating impact on school-aged Syrian children, many of whom have never been enrolled in school. For those who do have the opportunity to attend school, UNICEF estimate that almost one third of children drop out before the end of primary school, due factors like overcrowded classrooms and a lack of essential school supplies.
Before the restoration, Zamalka Primary School could host 780 students. But the classrooms were overcrowded — sometimes with up to 50 children in one classroom — and the physical environment wasn’t safe. This contributed to high drop-out rates, depriving children of their fundamental right to education, and learning was difficult and disrupted for many of the students.
In partnership with Abjad Initiative, Zamalka Primary School has now been fully restored, from rebuilding classrooms and toilets, to ensuring that the school is accessible for children with disabilities. Today, the school is safe, inclusive and child-friendly. Zamalka Primary School can now accommodate 900 students in a healthier and more supportive environment, with smaller class sizes.
More than just repairing walls and fixing classrooms, this project has created lasting change for children, teachers and the wider community in Zamalka. Since the rehabilitation was completed, our partner Abjad have provided 21 teachers with training in interactive and inclusive teaching, classroom management, and psychosocial support. With strengthened skills and better student–teacher ratios, they are now able to give more individualised attention and support to their students.
Additionally, families engaged in awareness sessions after the rehabilitation to learn more about the importance of providing a safe and supportive educational environment — making the community an active partner in sustaining change.
The result is not only a renovated school where children can safely grow and learn, but also better and more sustainable education opportunities in Zamalka. For teachers, parents and children alike, the school now represents hope, pride, and the promise of a better future.
Learn more about our local partner, Abjad Initiative for Education.
Read more from UNICEF about the current challenges facing schools in Syria: https://www.unicef.org/syria/education
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