AGP Executive Report

Kurdish Education in Rojava: Academics and students in Kobanê and across Rojava are protesting a decree that would cut Kurdish-language schooling to just a few weekly hours, arguing mother-tongue education is central to identity and learning. Cultural Resilience in Syria: A report from Hama captures how church weddings still carry traditional chants and celebratory rituals—Ewiha and zalghouta—despite years of war. Reconstruction & Lifestyle: UAE developer Arada has entered Syria via a joint venture with the Syrian Sovereign Fund to build the $7bn “New Damascus” mixed-use city near Mezzeh, with homes, schools, a hospital, and parks. Church & Community: Pope Leo XIV met Latin-rite bishops from Arab regions, urging solidarity with conflict-torn communities in places like Iraq and Syria. Diaspora & Daily Life: In Kansas City, Haitian vendors and families brace for deportations after protected status changes, with local food culture becoming a lifeline. Immigration Pressure in the US: Ohio faith leaders denounce ICE raids that detained Haitians, including pastors, after TPS terminations.

Kurdish Language Rights: Thousands marched in Kobanê, Hesekê, and Zirgan after Syria’s education ministry cut Kurdish-language instruction to just three hours/lessons per week, with protesters calling Kurdish “our identity” and warning students may lose access to education in their mother tongue. Cultural Spotlight: Damascus International Fair opened with a Kurdish pavilion showcasing traditional clothing, music, and crafts—an early sign of cultural institutions reopening as Syria rebuilds. Women’s Autonomy Talks: YPJ commander Newroz Ehmed says negotiations with Damascus must preserve YPJ’s independent structure and autonomy, with discussion shifting toward integrating YPJ as intact special units rather than individual absorption. State Integration in Hasakah: Syrian government forces entered central Hasakah to support security and integration steps after the SDF’s dissolution process began. Church Leadership: Vatican named Chorbishop Sharbel Maroun as archbishop-elect for the Maronite Archeparchy of Damascus, succeeding Samir Nassar. Education Disruption in Suwayda: Students in As-Suwayda face exam access problems tied to control of routes and centers, turning schooling into a political battleground.

Kurdish Language Rights in Focus: Syria’s Education Ministry now allows Kurdish-language lessons (three hours weekly), but PYD co-chair Gharib Hasso calls it too limited and urges official recognition in the constitution. Education Under Pressure in Sweida: Students in As-Suwayda say exam access has become a political roadblock, with thousands unable to reach centers amid disputes over supervision and routes. Hasakah Security Shift: Damascus sent more Interior Ministry-linked forces into Hasakah as it continues integrating former SDF structures into state security, following SDF moves to end its independent status. Maronite Church Leadership: Chorbishop Sharbel Maroun has been named archbishop-elect for the Maronite Archeparchy of Damascus, a major religious appointment connecting Syria’s church leadership with the diaspora. Cultural Life & Return: Lebanese actress Nour returned to social media after her husband’s death, sharing new photos and reigniting fan attention. Druze Community Spotlight: Azerbaijani journalists visited Israel’s Druze town of Hurfeish, hearing how border closures affect family ties across Syria, Lebanon, Israel, and Jordan. Art Scene: Yocum Institute announced “Sort of Wind,” the North American debut of Syrian-born artist Nasr Warour, opening Sept. 4.

Kurdish Education Under Pressure: In Kobanê and Hesekê, teachers and students protested Syria’s interim Education Ministry decision, demanding Kurdish-language schooling across subjects and warning the move will harm students’ academic and psychological well-being. Exams Become a Political Battlefield: In As-Suwayda, students say exam-center disputes are forcing families to relocate and risk missing tests, as local forces and Damascus-backed authorities clash over where exams should be held and who supervises them. Digital State-Building: Syria’s Interior Ministry launched a “Civil Affairs” app for appointments, document verification, and complaints, while officials say biometric ID rollout is still being prepared and no date has been set. Diplomacy Amid Tension: Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani said Syria remains committed to US-mediated talks with Israel, calling for withdrawal from occupied territory and a seized UN buffer zone, despite reported Israeli incursions and detentions. Cultural Lens on Conflict: A feature revisits the legacy of Osama bin Laden and the lesser-known ideologue Abu Musab al-Suri, tracing how modern insurgent tactics shaped later violent Islamism.

Kurdish Education in Syria: Syria’s Education Ministry moves to include Kurdish in school curricula, but Rojava parties and Kurdish women’s groups warn it’s watered down—limited lessons and elective status don’t meet mother-tongue rights. Cultural & Community Life: A Kurdish pastor in northern Syria faces persecution tied to strict “internet crimes” rules, raising fresh questions about the future of church planting among Syrian Kurds. Reconstruction & Lifestyle: UAE developer Arada signs a deal with the Syrian Sovereign Fund for a $7bn mixed-use megaproject in New Damascus, including housing, a park, hospital, and education facilities. Regional Culture & Identity: A new push for Christian-Muslim dialogue and debates over church politics in the Holy Land keep faith and identity in the spotlight. Food Heritage: Pistachio agriculture is framed as both a cultural staple and a growing economic driver across the Middle East, including Syria.

Kurdish Language in Schools: Syria is moving Kurdish from an elective to a counted curriculum subject, with three lessons a week in public and private schools in Kurdish-majority areas, ahead of the new academic year. Damascus Cultural Openness: A Kurdish cultural event held at a government center in Damascus drew calls for wider recognition of Kurdish language and culture, with performances and traditional dance. SDF Integration Fallout: Syria’s president appointed former SDF chief Mazloum Abdi as a presidential adviser after the SDF’s dissolution, as Kurds weigh what language and rights protections will mean under Damascus. Internal Security Crackdown: Syrian Internal Security arrested two former regime officers in Latakia over alleged abuses during the uprising, including extortion and killings/disappearances. Cultural Diplomacy & Media: Qatar is expanding its footprint in Syria and Lebanon through investment and mediation, while Syria also licensed a TV channel bearing the Turkmen community’s name. Poetry Spotlight: The Abdulaziz Saud Al-Babtain Cultural Foundation announced winners of its 20th poetry prize, reinforcing support for Arabic language and poetic creativity.

Kurdish Culture in Focus: A dedicated Kurdish pavilion opened at the 63rd Damascus International Fair, featuring traditional clothing, copperware, instruments, and dabke—an effort to present Kurdish identity as part of Syria’s national fabric. Language Rights in Rojava: Kurdish groups in northeastern Syria pushed back against moves to limit Kurdish-language schooling, saying mother-tongue education is a right, not a bargaining chip. SDF Integration Update: Ilham Ahmad said SDF integration into Syrian state institutions won’t settle all issues, with Kurdish constitutional language and prisoners still central, while talks on YPJ integration continue. Diplomacy Returns to Libya: Syria reopened its Tripoli embassy after nearly 14 years, agreeing to restart consular services and open a consulate in Benghazi. Local Tensions in Suwayda: Clashes resumed west of As-Suwayda, killing two civilians in reported shelling of a tractor. Arts & Film: Kobani International Film Festival is preparing its seventh edition in Germany, with 913 films submitted from 102 countries. Cultural Memory: Raja Shehadeh’s Palestinian diaries are being archived at the University of Edinburgh, preserving a personal record of life under occupation.

Damascus International Fair: The 63rd Damascus International Fair opened under “Syria Shines Again,” with about 1,000 companies from 60 countries and a push toward B2B/B2G deals plus daily music and children’s activities. Cultural Diplomacy: Syria was named guest of honor at the Amman International Book Fair 2026, spotlighting Syrian literature and strengthening Jordan-Syria cultural ties. Education & Language Rights: Kurdish language teachers protested in Hasakah after the Education Ministry limited Kurdish instruction to three classes a week, while Rojava University warned the change could harm scientific and academic learning. Youth Exam Fairness: In Yemen’s Al-Mahra, a Syrian student’s 99.25% top score was officially restored after an alleged system “technical error” excluded her from honors. Regional Security & Identity: Commentary on the Kurdish-led SDF dissolution argues integration could reshape relations between Syrian Kurds and the state if implemented in good faith. Community Health: A dental awareness and screening camp in Kuwait targeted children’s oral hygiene with interactive education and consultations for families.

Language & Education in Rojava: The University of Rojava in Qamishlo condemned Syria’s education ministry decision to cut Kurdish-language instruction to three classes per week, warning it would sideline Kurdish as the main medium for teaching science and other subjects. Kurdish-Language Rights Push: Related reporting says Syria is moving to expand Kurdish-language teaching in schools, but Rojava University argues the latest limits are a step backward. UN Concern Over Suwayda Exams: The UN said students in Syria’s Suwayda Governorate were reportedly blocked from reaching exam centers and faced movement restrictions, urging authorities to protect students’ right to education. Syria as Guest of Honor: Syria was named guest of honor at the 25th Amman International Book Fair 2026, with the Culture Ministry highlighting cultural exchange and Syrian literary and artistic heritage. Lebanon’s Education Under Strain: Lebanon may see 100,000 children unable to start the school year in September as damaged schools and conflict-related disruptions keep classrooms out of reach. Cultural Exchange Through Food: A culinary project pairing chefs Asma Khan and Sinem Özler is set to explore Tokat’s food memory and the routes that carried dishes and techniques across Anatolia. Heritage Despite War: Archaeologists continue uncovering major finds in Lebanon, including a Roman temple site in Maasser al-Shouf, even as excavations face setbacks from ongoing conflict.

Kurdish language in Syrian schools: Syria’s Ministry of Education has approved teaching Kurdish as a “national language” in public and private schools in Kurdish-majority areas, with three weekly sessions and a first-year option for some subjects to be taught in Arabic or Kurdish. Druze exam roadblocks: In Sweida, Druze factions blocked students from reaching official exam centers, insisting tests be held in areas they control; the governor condemned the move as political bargaining. SDF integration momentum: Canada welcomed the agreement to integrate the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces into Syrian state institutions, calling it a step toward a united, peaceful, inclusive Syria. U.S. sanctions shift: The U.S. rescinded Syria’s “state sponsor of terrorism” designation, framing it as sanctions relief and a path toward prosperity. Heritage under pressure: Lebanon’s archaeological work continues to surface major finds, including a Roman temple in Maasser al-Shouf, even as conflict disrupts excavations. Culture & identity in the Golan: A new Druze-run steakhouse in Lake Ram highlights how younger Druze in the Golan are navigating divided family ties and modern identity.

Kurdish Language in Schools: Syria’s Ministry of Education has approved Kurdish-language study as a “national language,” with three weekly sessions and grades counted, plus a first-year option for some subjects to be taught in Arabic or Kurdish. SDF Integration & Leadership Shift: President Ahmad al-Sharaa appointed Kurdish leader Mazloum Abdi as a presidential adviser after the SDF’s dissolution and integration into Syrian state institutions, with promises tied to Kurdish rights. International Reaction: Canada welcomed the integration deal as a step toward a united, peaceful, inclusive Syria, urging implementation that respects all Syrians. Education Blocked in Sweida: Druze factions in Sweida blocked students from reaching official exams, demanding tests be held in areas they control, drawing condemnation from the governor. Culture & Community: A Lower Mainland soccer club is building community for immigrant and refugee youth through weekly play, while Bahrain’s Al Fareej Festival kicked off with heritage-focused activities. Arts & Heritage: Sharjah honored poet Ali Kanaan, and Dortmund is preparing for its 34th International Kurdish Culture Festival.

Syria’s Kurdish integration: President Ahmad al-Sharaa appointed Mazloum Abdi, former SDF commander, as a presidential adviser, days after the SDF dissolved and its forces were folded into Syrian state structures. Language rights in daily life: Syria’s education ministry also authorized Kurdish-language instruction in public and private schools in Kurdish areas, a major shift for Rojava-era demands. Minorities and fear: A new analysis warns that despite diplomatic normalization, Syria’s Alawites, Christians, and Druze still face deep insecurity and the risk of renewed sectarian violence. Culture & community: Bahrain’s Al Fareej Festival kicked off with heritage workshops and youth activities, spotlighting traditional crafts and intergenerational storytelling. Global culture note: A CBC policy change clarified how it will describe 9/11, reflecting how language choices shape public trust and cultural memory. Human impact: A report on a Syrian-American family describes how an ICE check-in can upend lives overnight.

Kurdish-language education in Syria: Syria’s Education Ministry has authorized Kurdish-language classes in Kurdish-majority areas, making Kurdish a mandatory subject three times a week and folding it into approved curricula and final grades—an important cultural shift after years of Kurdish-language instruction under separate administration. SDF integration and leadership changes: Days after the Syrian Democratic Forces announced dissolution and integration into state structures, President Ahmed al-Sharaa appointed SDF leader Mazloum Abdi as a presidential adviser, signaling deeper Kurdish inclusion while raising questions about unresolved issues such as the status of female fighters. Media and identity: Syria licensed its first TV channel bearing the Turkmen community’s name, giving Turkmen audiences an officially registered platform as the media sector is reorganized. Regional culture and diplomacy: Türkiye pushed for stronger international action over Israeli violations at OIC talks, while an Islamic Unity Conference in Tehran called for Muslim solidarity and resistance—framing Palestine and Lebanon as central cultural-political causes. Humanitarian education impact: In Lebanon, displacement and damage from Israeli strikes have left many students uncertain about whether schools will reopen in September.

Kurdish-language education in Syria: The Transitional Government’s Education Ministry issued Decision No. 493, expanding Kurdish teaching in public and private schools in Kurdish-majority areas, with Kurdish lessons three times a week and a one-year transition allowing some subjects to be taught in Kurdish. SDF dissolution and integration: Turkey welcomed the SDF/YPG dissolution and said it supports a unified Syria with inclusive governance, as Kurdish women fighters weigh what integration into new security structures could mean for their roles. US-Syria diplomatic shift: Syria was removed from the U.S. State Sponsor of Terrorism list, a move framed as helping Damascus reintegrate economically and reduce Iran’s influence. Regional culture and identity: A debate over the “Al-Dhahabi Campaign” and Islamic hijab rules is reigniting questions about religion, women’s clothing, and public authority in Damascus. Food culture: In Airdrie, a chef is spotlighting “Syrian-style” and “Lebanese-style” shawarma variations, showing how small ingredient choices shape identity on the plate.

Kurdish Language in Schools: Syria’s Ministry of Education will introduce Kurdish as an elective in the 2026-2027 school year, implementing Decree No. 13 of 2026 and framing Kurdish culture as part of Syria’s national identity. SDF Dissolution & Integration: The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces have formally dissolved after fighters and civilian structures were folded into Syrian state institutions, with regional reactions focused on whether promised Kurdish rights will hold. Kurdish Women’s Future: YPJ leaders say talks with the Interior Ministry are “positive,” raising hopes that women fighters could be integrated in specialized roles rather than left in limbo. Afrin Archaeology: New funerary stones with Latin inscriptions were found near Afrin, transferred to the National Museum of Aleppo as concerns about looting and vandalism continue. Jerusalem Naming Fight: Israeli authorities replaced “Damascus Gate” signs with “Ancient Gate,” a move criticized as erasing Palestinian and Arabic identity. Culture & Community Abroad: A Syrian immigrant’s BBQ business in Slippery Rock highlights diaspora life, while scholarship news spotlights Syrian students pursuing healthcare careers.

Syria’s Kurdish integration breakthrough: Damascus announced the dissolution of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the winding down of the Autonomous Administration, with fighters and institutions absorbed into state structures—while Kurdish language and literature gain official recognition in Kurdish-majority areas through weekly classes. National unity debate: Analysts warn the political deal is only the start, with military integration details still uneven and some capable units reportedly sidelined. Damascus cultural spotlight: The 63rd Damascus International Fair opened in the capital, shifting toward a business-and-investment platform with an inaugural “Road to the Damascus World Economic Forum” session. Justice and memory: Human-rights lawyer Anwar al-Bunni says the Assad era is over, but the fight for justice is just beginning as his team pivots to training lawyers and supporting victims. Regional culture & heritage: A new exhibition at the Smithsonian will bring 26 Islamic masterworks from the Louvre to the U.S., including a Syro-Egyptian basin and a Damascus-steel Mughal dagger.