With much of territorial ISIS destroyed, the US-led coalition in Syria is now transitioning to a more challenging phase—building peace. This requires a multifaceted strategy that combines military action with advances along several lines of effort, including supporting local governance and humanitarian assistance. Chief amongst these is the promotion of education.

During a recent trip to northeast Syria, our Middle East Regional Advisor, Zack Bazzi, met with American military leaders and local officials to assess how SoA can best support their mission of stabilizing the region and preventing the resurgence of ISIS and other extremist organizations. Across the board, the message was loud and clear; getting kids back into functioning classrooms is essential for their future, and that of Syria. Leaving a generation of Syrian children without access to quality education is a recipe for long-term strife and instability.

A drawing by a Syrian child

Destroyed classroom at Malhak al-Baroni all-girl school in Shaddadi, Syria

We want to do our share. SoA is raising enough funds to provide 800 student desks, 400 whiteboards, 70 classroom heaters, 17 portable water tanks, and 3,500 school uniforms. These crucial supplies, which were selected based on input from local leaders and US troops, will help get classrooms back up and running and enhance hygiene at several public schools across northeast Syria. Not only will this impact the education of thousands of children, it will also help improve the faith of citizens in their local governments.

By supporting this project, you can advance educational opportunities for Syrian children and fight back against the forces of extremism that thrive on ignorance and chaos.