Syria introduces Kurdish language as elective in schools, marking historic shift

Syria is set to formally introduce the Kurdish language into its education system for the first time, beginning with the 2026-2027 academic year. Approved as an elective subject, Kurdish will be taught for two periods per week, marking a significant departure from decades of restrictions on Kurdish language and cultural identity.

The decision is an implementation of Decree No. 13 of 2026 and executive instructions from the Ministry of Education. The decree, issued by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa on January 16, 2026, recognizes Syrian Kurdish citizens as an integral part of the Syrian people and their culture and language as part of the national identity. It permits Kurdish to be taught in public and private schools in areas with significant Kurdish populations.

“

Syrian Kurdish citizens are “an essential and integral part of the Syrian people” and that their culture and language are part of Syria’s national identity.

This policy shift contrasts sharply with the state's historical approach. For over fifty years, Syria's Kurds faced discrimination and exclusion, particularly after a 1962 census in Hasakah province that stripped citizenship from tens of thousands. Restrictions intensified after the Baath Party's rise to power in 1963, impacting political, cultural, and linguistic life.

The Ministry of Education issued executive instructions on January 26, 2026, to implement the decree. The National Center for Curriculum Development has been tasked with preparing curricula, and the ministry announced on August 17, 2026, that it was recruiting Kurdish-language teachers. Applicants will undergo proficiency tests and training. Education Minister Mohammad Abdulrahman Tarkou stated that the decree represents a 'qualitative shift' in the approach to the Kurdish issue.

“

Decree represents a 'qualitative shift' in approach to Kurdish issue