People with disabilities in northern Syria have faced harsh conditions that have kept many of them away from educational opportunities. Others have persevered with the help of their families and their own great efforts to catch up with their peers. However, limited resources and a lack of necessary educational facilities for this segment of the population have posed significant obstacles.
Yamen and Wissam’s Challenges and Determination to Return to Education
Yamen Al-Kurdi, a young man from Khan Sheikhoun, lost his leg in the massacre of Al-Aqlam that took place in the town of Hass. He endured subsequent hardships that kept him away from school for a period of time.
Watch Yamen’s story:
Despite his displacement, which his family and he experienced multiple times, they moved between several areas before finally settling in the camps of northern Syria. Yamen’s suffering and the loss of his leg during his time at school did not prevent him from considering returning to complete the ninth-grade curriculum. He joined Masarat Initiative, which provided a lifeline for people with disabilities, aiming to alleviate their isolation and put them on the path of knowledge.
Wissam Dadoush, another young man from the displaced residents of Khan Al-Sabil, found an opportunity to continue his education and pursue some of his dreams through Masarat.
Wissam suffered an injury in 2015 that kept him away from school. His father, who was his support and refuge, passed away, adding to the pain he endured. The series of displacement experiences with his family and his ailing mother, who required constant care from him, completely distanced him from education.
Wissam got married and continued with his life, but the dream of studying still loomed before him, hindered by his difficult circumstances. However, when he heard about Masarat Initiative and its free services, he felt that it was the best solution for his situation. He listened to the call of his heart and returned to his studies, as the initiative provided him with the opportunity to attend lessons at his convenience, according to his free time.
Watch Wissam’s story:
Masarat Providing Education to 175 Students with Disabilities
The Masarat Initiative offers free services to students with disabilities, providing them with school education, student activities, and academic advising within their homes. The number of registered students with disabilities in the initiative currently stands at 175, while the total number of students since its inception in 2019 until mid-2023 reaches around 18,000, including those from the most vulnerable groups in society.
