Teachers demand constitutional recognition of Kurdish Language

A number of female teachers in the city of Karaki Laki in the Jazira region emphasized the need for official recognition of the Kurdish language in the Syrian constitution.

In this context, teacher Nasrin Mahmoud said that the Kurdish language has been subjected to repeated attempts at erasure, stressing that enshrining it in the Syrian constitution is a fundamental right because “language is identity.”

Nasrin Mahmoud added that any attempts to change the names of schools and cities are unacceptable, as they are linked to history and past sacrifices. She also called on the Kurdish people and political forces to unite and overcome divisions in order to protect the language and strengthen its presence.

For her part, teacher Zozan Othman explained that Kurdish language education has continued for more than 12 years, during which educational curricula were developed and schools and educational institutions dedicated to the mother tongue were established.

She pointed out that these efforts should not be wasted, stressing the need to officially recognize the Kurdish language and include it in the Syrian constitution. She noted that during the Baathist regime, the use of the language was restricted, while in recent years its teaching has been strengthened despite ongoing challenges.

Meanwhile, teacher Narin Mohammed said that the Kurdish language is a fundamental component of the identity of Kurdish society in Syria, emphasizing rejection of any changes affecting the character of villages and schools connected to the cultural identity of the population.

She concluded by stressing that the educational achievements made through great efforts and sacrifices must be preserved and protected from regression, and that constitutional recognition of the Kurdish language is a necessary step toward strengthening cultural diversity in the country.

ANHA