From Deprivation to Empowerment, Empowering Women’s Education
The General Monitor of Universities and Institutes in Syria observes a notable increase in interest for women’s education and women presence in university seats. The deprivation of some women from the opportunity to pursue education in their early lives did not deter them from persevering and exerting extra effort in seeking the degree that is considered a stronghold for every learner. Some women managed to return to the classrooms with determination to achieve their long-lost dream, especially after being provided with educational programms from their homes, allowing them to continue their secondary education without leaving their children or household responsibilities.
Women’s Education in Action, Changing Lives
Fatima Al-Mohammad, a forty-year-old woman, had abandoned her studies in her youth due to the prevailing customs and traditions in her village, which frowned upon women traveling to universities. However, her dream of education never faded, even after her marriage and the challenges of family responsibilities and household chores. That dream remained a driving force for her to return to the classrooms and obtain her high school diploma.
Life Challenges Did Not Kill the Dream
As for Hasnaa Al-Maarrati, the young girl faced significant challenges in her pursuit of education. She lacked the ability to travel to distant educational centers from her home, and her time was predominantly consumed as she was attending to her family. Nevertheless, her determination pushed her to search for unique educational opportunities. Eventually, she found a way to achieve her goal of becoming an educated woman through Masarat Initiative, which brought the educational curriculum to her doorstep.
Salmah Al-Hayek, on the other hand, showed perseverance and resilience. Due to displacement and the war that ravaged the country, Salmah had been out of education for over nine years. Additionally, she was occupied with household matters and raising her children. However, those years did not extinguish the light within her, nor did they diminish her dream of pursuing education and obtaining the certificate that would enable her to study nursing. She returned to continue her studies, hoping to achieve her dream as quickly as possible.
Building a Womens’ Future through Education
These three mothers found their way to complete their educational journey through Masarat Initiative, despite the difficulties and challenges they faced. The initiative successfully overcame these obstacles and transformed their dreams into reality. It has included over 600 women who had been deprived of education, providing them with free online learning opportunities from the comfort of their homes and within their families. The initiative also offers them advising and educational support to help them raise their children and build a promising future.
