Wednesday, August 21, 2024
Author: Sohaib Satti
Country: Sudan
Source: The Syrian Youth Assembly website's home page (syrian-youth.org)
SUMMARY
The Syrian Youth Assembly (SYA) is an initiative that empowers Syrian youth, particularly those displaced by conflict through education, development, and peacebuilding by partnering with platforms like Coursera, Babbel, and Alison. This initiative has reached over 130,000 young people since 2016, contributing significantly to their personal development and the broader goal of peace and reconstruction in Syria and other conflict-affected regions.
BACKGROUND
The Syrian Youth Assembly (SYA) is a remarkable initiative that has significantly impacted the lives of Syrian youth, especially those displaced by the ongoing conflict. As a project under the Young Global Citizens Assembly i.e., an international NGO based in Berlin, SYA focuses on empowering Syrian youth through education, development, and peace-building.
Empowering Through Education
Since its inception, SYA has placed a strong emphasis on education as a means to empower young people who have been displaced or are living as refugees due to the ongoing conflict in Syria. Utilizing digital solutions and virtual platforms, the Assembly partners with global educational institutions to offer a wide range of programs. These programs cover various sectors, with a particular focus on technology, equipping participants with the skills needed to secure decent job opportunities.
For instance, through partnerships with platforms like Coursera, Babbel, and Alison, SYA has reached thousands of students. Over 80,000 Syrians have applied to Coursera courses, with 45,000 actively participating, while Babbel has seen more than 15,000 applicants, of whom 10,000 are currently active. These initiatives not only offer essential education but also provide a pathway for young Syrians to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Development and Peacebuilding
Beyond education, SYA is deeply involved in development and peacebuilding activities. The Assembly's mission aligns with international frameworks such as the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and Security Council Resolutions 2250 and 2418, which emphasize the critical role of youth in peace and security. Through various peace-building initiatives, SYA provides Syrian youth with the skills and platforms needed to participate in the peace process at both social and political levels.
SYA’s commitment to peacebuilding is evident in its numerous projects that focus on advocacy, awareness, and the involvement of youth in discussions surrounding the future of Syria. The Assembly recognizes that for these young people to effectively contribute to peace, their basic needs—such as education and vocational training—must first be met. Therefore, SYA’s programs are designed to be accessible, overcoming cultural, social, and security barriers, especially for Syrian girls, who face additional challenges in these areas.
One of SYA's most impactful projects is the scholarship program for the Coursera platform. This initiative provides Syrian youth in general, and Arabs and non-Arabs who meet the asylum conditions in particular, such as internally displaced persons, refugees, or stateless persons, with direct access to over 9,000 courses and specializations offered by prestigious universities and companies worldwide. What makes this program particularly beneficial is that it not only offers high-quality education but also allows participants to earn certificates for free, removing the financial barriers that often prevent access to such valuable resources.
Impact and Global Reach
Since 2016, SYA has implemented over 15 projects, benefiting more than 130,000 young people, both inside Syria and in the diaspora. The organization’s success is underpinned by significant international support, with over $10 million invested in services and programs by SYA’s partners over the past five years. This global backing has enabled the Assembly to continue expanding its reach, including its recent efforts to support Sudanese youth.
The impact of SYA’s work is not only seen in the numbers but also in the personal success stories of individuals who have gained new skills, found employment, and contributed to peacebuilding efforts in their communities. By providing educational and development opportunities, SYA is helping to lay the foundation for a more peaceful and prosperous future for Syria and beyond.
Long-Term Vision
Looking ahead, SYA aims to continue its work in organizing and mobilizing Syrians developing their skills and securing their basic needs for education and employment. The organization envisions a future where these empowered young people can actively contribute to the peace and reconstruction of Syria and other conflict-affected regions, driving sustainable development and social stability.
Conclusion
The Syrian Youth Assembly stands as a beacon of hope for Syrians offering them the tools and opportunities to build better futures. Through its innovative programs in education, development, and peacebuilding, SYA is making a significant impact on the lives of young people in conflict-affected regions, empowering them to become active participants in creating a peaceful and prosperous world.
REFERENCES
Syrian Youth Assembly. (2024). Educational Programs and Impact. Retrieved from syrian-youth.org.
United Nations Security Council Resolutions 2250 and 2418 on Youth, Peace, and Security. (2015, 2018). Youth Engagement in Peacebuilding. Retrieved from UN Documentation.
Young Global Citizens Assembly e.V. (2024). NGO Work and Global Impact. Retrieved from yuca-ev.org.
Coursera. (n.d.). Coursera for Refugees. Retrieved from coursera.org
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