Students at University of Kobani demand preservation of university’s independence

On Wednesday, students at the University of Kobani issued a statement from the university premises, expressing their rejection of a decision issued by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research of the Syrian Transitional Government regarding the university. The statement reads:

"We, the students of the University of Kobani, view with concern the recent decisions and steps taken regarding the university’s future, specifically the proposal to merge it with the University of Aleppo, as well as the removal of several departments and specializations from the university admissions process. These measures raise serious concerns regarding students' rights and their academic future, while limiting their ability to choose their fields of study and pursue their education.

We affirm that the right to education and the freedom to choose one’s field of study are fundamental rights. Removing certain departments from the admissions process without providing any justification restricts educational opportunities and runs counter to the principles of equality and educational justice.

Despite all the hardships and obstacles, the region has endured, the students of Kobani have steadfastly upheld their right to education, transforming the university into a space for learning, knowledge, and the construction of a future. It is entirely unacceptable to implement decisions that diminish educational opportunities and infringe upon academic rights without first subjecting them to serious, substantive discussion.

We emphasize that any administrative changes or mergers involving the university must not come at the expense of the students. Such changes should not alter our existing study plans, impose additional coursework, or undermine the rights we have already secured. Any adjustments must be based on clear criteria that safeguard academic stability and protect the rights of all students.

Accordingly," We demand the following:

- The reinstatement of departments and specializations that have been removed from the university admissions process, and the protection of students' rights to apply for them, ensuring fairness and equal opportunity in higher education.

- The retention of existing study curricula for currently enrolled students until they complete their degrees, without the imposition of additional coursework resulting from university mergers or administrative changes.

- The preservation of all completed coursework, academic grades, years of study, and all other academic rights of the students.

- The inclusion of students in decision-making processes regarding the university’s future; the provision of clear explanations for any decisions made; and the issuance of written, public guarantees to safeguard students' rights.

- The involvement of student representatives in committees and meetings concerning the university merger, as well as in discussions regarding any decision that impacts the university’s future.

- Full disclosure of the reasons behind the removal of departments from the university admissions process, along with the criteria used for such decisions, and the provision of this information to students and the general public for review and discussion.

- Consideration of the needs of the city of Kobani and the surrounding region, and efforts to maintain the University of Kobani as an independent institution within the higher education system ensuring it continues to fulfill its educational and scientific role while meeting the needs and aspirations of the local youth.

- Consideration of the economic and living hardships faced by students in Kobani and the region; many are unable to afford the costs of tuition, transportation, and accommodation in other cities. Therefore, the continued existence and independence of the University of Kobani are essential to guaranteeing the right to education and equal opportunity, ensuring that students' academic pursuits are not hindered by their economic circumstances.

- A guarantee that all students currently enrolled at the university may continue their studies. ...at the University of Kobani until they graduate, without forcing them to pursue their studies at other universities a requirement that could otherwise impose significant economic obstacles.

We call upon the relevant institutions to initiate a serious and responsible dialogue with student representatives, to reconsider decisions and measures that affect the students' future, and to arrive at fair and transparent solutions that uphold their rights and address their demands.

We affirm that we will not relinquish our right to advocate for our demands through legal and legitimate means, including peaceful demonstrations, until the students' demands are met and their academic future is secured.

Students' rights are not a matter for negotiation, and educational justice is not a secondary concern; rather, it is a fundamental responsibility that rests with the relevant institutions. The future of the University of Kobani and its students must be built upon the foundations of justice, transparency, and respect for rights not upon the restriction of opportunities or the dismissal of legitimate demands.

ANHA