New decisions regarding student dorm at Aleppo University spark widespread criticism

New administrative decisions issued by the General Authority of the University Dorms at Aleppo University have sparked widespread criticism among students. These decisions impose additional restrictions on behavior within the dormitories, raising questions about the administration's priorities between maintaining order and providing basic services.

On Thursday, the Director General of the University Dorms issued a decision completely prohibiting students from gathering in the vicinity of female student housing units, as well as in front of shops within the university dorms. He justified this by citing recommendations from the Board of Directors, received complaints, and what he described as "the requirements of the public interest." He also asserted that the decision aims to facilitate the movement of female students and enable them to meet their needs without overcrowding.

In a related matter, the university administration had issued another decision a few days prior prohibiting video calls or taking photos within female student housing units using mobile phones or any electronic devices. The administration stated that this measure is intended "to preserve public decency and the privacy of the residence," while threatening penalties for violators.

These decisions were met with criticism from students and activists, who stated that they focused more on imposing restrictions than addressing chronic service problems within the dormitories.

Student pages circulated posts criticizing the "prioritization of prohibition over improving living conditions," pointing to ongoing infrastructure malfunctions, poor maintenance, and the absence of even basic services.

Students questioned the effectiveness of the new measures in the absence of solutions to fundamental problems, such as frequent breakdowns in the dormitories, poor hygiene, and a lack of safety measures. They argued that the administration is gradually transforming into a regulatory body rather than a service provider.

Critics also considered the tightening of restrictions within university dormitories to raise issues related to personal freedoms, especially given legal texts that emphasize the protection of citizens' fundamental rights, including the right to privacy and a dignified life.

These developments come within a broader context in several Syrian regions, where an increasing number of regulatory decisions have recently been issued aimed at controlling public conduct within institutions. This has sparked growing debate about the limits of administrative authority and their impact on the daily lives of students and citizens.

Sh-S

ANHA