Syrians Embrace Freedom: Back to School Post-Assad

A week after the unexpected fall of the Assad administration, Syrians are returning to school with a renewed sense of freedom.

People are filled with a range of emotions now that rebels have taken power: joy for new freedoms, sadness for years of persecution, and a mix of hopes and fears for the future.

Maysoun al-Ali, principal of Nahla Zaidan School, observed, “Today is the first day of lessons since the dictatorship toppled. We are now in liberated Syria. Our country always strives for the best. We are working to reconstruct this country with these youngsters, even though some are afraid. They are here to help Syria grow and share in its accomplishments. We hope for continued prosperity, safety, and development in our dear country.”

The transition has been fairly peaceful, with few instances of retribution or sectarian bloodshed.

Looting and vandalism have been rapidly dealt with, with insurgency fighters maintaining order.

Ribah al-Ahmad, a Damascus resident, wrote, “A week after the fall of Assad’s regime, we are back at university. The environment is more relaxed, attendance is up, and lecturers are more helpful.”

War has torn families apart, former inmates are traumatized by their experiences, and many detainees remain unaccounted for.

The economy has collapsed, poverty is pervasive, and inflation and unemployment are high.

The transition has been remarkably peaceful, with few instances of vengeance or sectarian bloodshed.

Looting and vandalism have been dealt with quickly, as insurgency fighters maintain order.

Ribah al-Ahmad, a Damascus resident, stated, “A week after the fall of Assad’s regime, we are back at university. The environment is more relaxed, attendance is higher, and the lecturers are more supportive.”

War has torn families apart, former captives are traumatized by their experiences, and many detainees remain missing.

The economy is in shambles, poverty is rampant, and inflation and unemployment are rising.

Corruption is a part of everyday life.

Despite this, Syria remains divided and isolated after fifty years under Assad’s control.

However, at this period of transition, many people are ready to discover a new way forward.