Regional reflections on education research priorities for a post-Assad Syria

This UCL ERICC virtual Seminar brought together experts Rabie Nasser (University of Vienna), Maria Maalouf (Centre for Lebanese Studies), Professor Cathrine Brun (Centre for Lebanese Studies), and Dr. Robert Palmer (Queen Rania Foundation) in dialogue to discuss ongoing research on education for Syrians in Lebanon, and Jordan, and their implications for understanding forthcoming challenges and opportunities for Syria in this new post-Assad era. They will be joined by a Discussant Dr Oudai Tozan (University of Cambridge) who will provide critical reflections on methodological, theoretical, and policy implications of rapidly changing political dynamics for educational research in the region. This Seminar hosted an academic discussion and debate to examine how research from the region can inform outlooks for the futures of Syrians in Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan. The first presentation, by Rabie Nasser, focused on Syria and the complexities of conducting education research amidst the protracted conflict in Syria, including fragmentation across regions, persistent insecurity, and a lack of stability, creating substantial barriers to data collection and analysis. Rabie offered an overview of the available evidence on the quality and state of education, concluding with reflections on priorities moving forward. Following this, Maria Maalouf will offer insights into the educational experiences of Syrian refugees in Lebanon and reflect on how recent events, such as the aftermath of Israeli aggressions on Lebanon and the regime change in Syria, have introduced additional layers of uncertainty to the challenges faced by Syrian refugees in Lebanon. Finally, Dr. Robert Palmer will discuss the educational landscape for Syrians in Jordan, including an overview of government and donor support, and a reflection on pathways for education research, policies, and practices in the future.

Presentation: Click here

Webinar Recording: Click here

Additional Resources: Research Publication Portals

Education Research in Conflict and Protracted Crises (ERICC) 

Center for Lebanese Studies Publications

Queen Rania Foundation Publications

Osman Consulting Research

If you have any questions about the webinar, contact [email protected]