Crisis in the Education Sector

The ongoing crisis in the educational sector in the liberated areas of northern Syria highlights a painful reality that goes beyond administrative shortcomings — it strikes at the dignity and status of teachers in a society that could not have endured without their resilience.

From Azaz and Al-Bab to Jarabulus, Marea, and Afrin, these cities and villages have never been mere dots on the map. They are living arenas of struggle, where the price of freedom and dignity was paid in full. At the centre of this struggle stood the teacher: in tents, in destroyed schools, and in frontline classrooms under bombardment, striving to prevent an entire generation from falling into ignorance, extremism, or despair.

Salaries Suspended, Silence from the Authorities

More than fourteen years after their sacrifices began, teachers are now facing an uncertain fate. Salaries, once provided through the Turkish side, have been suspended for nearly two months. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education of the Syrian Interim Government remains silent — offering no official statement, no timeline for payment, and no explanation to teachers who are enduring harsh living conditions.

According to informed sources, the Turkish side has already submitted files to integrate teachers into the institutions of the Syrian Interim Government and secure their positions. However, the process has stalled in ministry offices, turning into a clear case of administrative neglect.

Voices of Teachers and Activists

Teachers are once again raising their voices — not only to demand their salaries, but to reclaim their role and mission.

“I taught my students not to submit to injustice, and now they ask me to accept humiliation and be treated as a burden. We preserved education when state institutions collapsed — how can our resilience be rewarded with neglect?”
— Teacher from northern rural Aleppo

Activists have launched an online campaign under the hashtags:
#Voice_of_the_Teacher #Teacher_is_a_Red_Line #Integrate_Northern_Syria_Teachers
reminding the world that education cannot become a bargaining chip or a casualty of administrative chaos.

Clear and Legitimate Demands

Teachers are calling for urgent action:

• Immediate payment of overdue salaries
• Issuance of an official statement clarifying the teachers’ situation
• Recognition of education as a national priority, not a marginal issue

To continue marginalising teachers after all their sacrifices is not merely an institutional failure — it is a betrayal of a revolutionary journey that has lasted more than a decade. The future of education in northern Syria now depends on a decision, a voice, and a responsible stance.

Who Is Behind the Marginalisation?

The pressing question remains: who is responsible for this neglect, particularly in light of the reappearance of former human rights violators from the collapsed Assad regime and the silence surrounding their return?

International, regional, and local organisations have already condemned the Ministry of Education’s marginalisation of teachers in northern Syria. Full reports are currently being prepared on the reality of education in Syria.

Reported:
Ahmed Mowas
IHRC Journalist

The post Teachers in Northern Syria: Resilient in the Face of Neglect and Uncertain Fate first appeared on ihrc.news.

IHRC and Shri Hela Higher Education Academy Launch Psychological Counseling Program

17 July 2025
Kurunegala, Sri Lanka

Addressing Mental Health Through Education

The International Human Rights Commission (IHRC Alliance), together with the Shri Hela Higher Education Academy, inaugurated a new psychological counseling program series titled “A Path to a Beautiful Life”. The initiative aims to confront the growing mental health challenges affecting adults, youth, and children across modern society.

The first program took place on Thursday, 17 July 2025, at the Panala Divisional Secretariat’s Town Hall in Kurunegala. It was organized in collaboration with the Panala Gnana Pradeepa Library’s Readers’ Club, the Institute of Professional Studies and Skills Development Sri Lanka, the International Human Rights Commission, and the Shri Hela Cultural Collaboration Foundation.

Expert-Led Training

The session was conducted by Dr. Madhavi Bandara, a respected psychological counselor, former university lecturer, and Senior Executive Director of the Institute of Professional Studies and Skills Development Sri Lanka. Dr. Bandara, who also serves as Regional Coordinator for IHRC Alliance – Sri Lanka, holds an extensive academic background with degrees in English, Linguistics, Education, and Psychology, including a PhD.

Her training focused on equipping professionals—counseling teachers, disciplinary officers, police representatives, and government field officers—with tools to identify early signs of mental health difficulties and provide first-line support.

“Counselors and frontline officers play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of our communities. Their guidance can transform lives and create pathways to resilience.”

Wide Participation and Community Engagement

The program gathered over 480 participants from the Girulla Educational Zone, including:

• Principals and teachers,
• Police officers from the Kandanegedara Police Station,
• Preschool educators,
• Human resources counselors from local industries.

Organizational support was provided by the Girulla Educational Zone Office’s counseling division and the Panala Gnana Pradeepa Library.

IHRC Commitment

Speaking at the event, Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, Commissioner of IHRC Alliance – Sri Lanka, highlighted the Commission’s dedication to human health and social development:

“You are the pioneers in transforming and healing our society. The International Human Rights Commission will stand with you and assist you in any challenges you face in this journey.”

This pledge underscores IHRC’s ongoing commitment to supporting counselors, educators, and frontline workers who address the pressing mental health needs of society.

Distinguished Attendees

The ceremony was attended by a wide range of dignitaries and officials, including:

• Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake – Commissioner, IHRC Alliance Sri Lanka; Founder/Chairman, Shri Hela Higher Education Academy and Cultural Collaboration Foundation,
• Dr. Madhavi Bandara – Regional Coordinator, IHRC Alliance Sri Lanka,
• Miss. Nirosha – Psychology Lecturer, IPSSD,
• Mrs. Neluka Chandrapala – Assistant Zonal Director of Education, Girulla,
• Local government, police, education leaders, IHRC coordinators, and community representatives.

Their presence reflected the multi-sectoral importance of mental health education, bridging government, education, and humanitarian sectors.

Building a Healthier Future

The “A Path to a Beautiful Life” initiative highlights the importance of psychological counseling as an essential element of education and social stability. By raising awareness, training professionals, and empowering communities, the program stands as a pioneering step towards addressing mental health in Sri Lanka.

Reported by:
Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake
IHRC Commissioner of Sri Lanka,
IHRC Press Investigative Journalist
International Human Rights Commission

The post 🌿 “A Path to a Beautiful Life” in Sri Lanka first appeared on ihrc.news.

Empowering Special Education through Early Intervention

11 August 2025
Idlib, Syria

A Milestone for Special Education in Idlib

The city of Idlib marked an important step in advancing inclusive education with the closing ceremony of the “Safe Point” project, a two-month initiative dedicated to early intervention in special education. The project was supervised by the Resalat Amal team and implemented with the support of the Violet Organization.

Over the course of the programme, local female volunteers were trained in the basics of early intervention, strengthening their ability to provide specialised care and psychosocial support to children with special needs. This capacity-building effort represents a tangible investment in local resilience and community-driven solutions.

Creating Safe Spaces for Children

As part of the initiative, a safe and well-equipped garden was established inside a local centre in Idlib, designed to offer an accessible environment for recreational and educational activities.

“This achievement is a crucial step in supporting children’s integration, promoting their psychological well-being, and addressing developmental needs.”

Ceremony Highlights

The closing ceremony showcased:

• Achievements and success stories of the project, reflecting its impact on both children and volunteers.
• A practical workshop that laid the groundwork for a research paper on the current state of special education in the region, identifying challenges and pathways for improvement.
• A children’s awareness play, creatively underlining the importance of inclusive care and early intervention.
• An honouring ceremony for volunteers, recognising their field efforts, commitment, and compassion in supporting the most vulnerable.

Towards a Better Future

This initiative stands out as a pioneering model in northwestern Syria, offering not only direct support to children with special needs but also contributing to raising awareness within the wider community. By promoting early intervention as an essential tool in education and social inclusion, the “Safe Point” project has become a symbol of hope for building a more supportive and inclusive future.

Reported:
Ahmed Mowas
IHRC Press Journalist

The post 🎓 Closing of the “Safe Point” Project in Idlib first appeared on ihrc.news.

IHRC ceremony recognises achievement in learning, sport and service to the community

Manali, Himachal Pradesh (India) — 11 August 2025. During a school ceremony coordinated by International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) volunteers, around 40 pupils were recognised for outstanding results in academics and sport. Local community members assisting people in need also received acknowledgements, underscoring the event’s strong community spirit.

Partnership between the school and IHRC volunteers

The initiative was organised by Kishan Lal, IHRC volunteer, with the support of H.E. Bishop Dr Samsher Khan, IHRC Peace Ambassador & High Commissioner (MNVC SMM IHRC), and a team of volunteers. Pupils received medals and trophies for sustained effort and fair play, while contributors engaged in poverty-alleviation activities were publicly thanked and commended.

“Recognising children for their effort in the classroom and on the playing field builds confidence and strengthens social bonds. We thank the school, parents and volunteers whose quiet service truly changes the lives of families in need” said H.E. Bishop Dr Samsher Khan during the ceremony.

Organisers expressed appreciation to Prof. h.c. Rafał Marcin Wasik, IHRC Secretary-General, Peacemaker, for strategic guidance, and to Dawid Szabłowski, Head of IHRC Press Department, for media support and documentation.

Why it matters

• Education and sport foster equal opportunity, resilience and social skills among young people.
• Public recognition strengthens motivation, work ethic and a culture of fair competition.
• Volunteering and local partnerships help deliver targeted support to the most vulnerable families.

Event highlights

• ~40 pupils were honoured for achievement in study and sport.
• Community helpers received acknowledgements for supporting people in difficult circumstances.
• The ceremony took place on school grounds, with teachers, parents and the IHRC team in attendance.
• Continued collaboration between the school, community and civil society organisations was emphasised.

Next steps

The IHRC volunteer team in the region announced further education- and sport-focused activities, alongside community service projects aimed at equalising opportunities, developing talent and social inclusion. Local partners — schools, municipalities, NGOs and business — are invited to co-organise future initiatives.

Author:
H.E Bishop Dr. Samsher Khan
IHRC Peace Ambassador High Commissioner
MNVC SMM IHRC & IHRC Press Journalist 

The post 🏅 Honouring Young Talent in Manali first appeared on ihrc.news.

Recognition and Opportunity for Youth in Jharkhand
Ranchi, Jharkhand | 12 June 2025

Celebrating Academic Achievement and Gender Empowerment

On 12 June 2025, under the banner of the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC) and the Peace Justice Humanity and Relief Foundation (PJHRF), a special ceremony was held in the Itki region of Ranchi, Jharkhand, to honour exceptional young achievers.

The highlight of the event was the distribution of four bicycles to the top-performing girls in the region, recognising their academic excellence and supporting their continued education. In addition, over 30 students who achieved distinction marks in the 10th and 12th Board Examinations received medals, certificates, and mementos, celebrating their dedication and success.

Promoting Equal Opportunity and Social Development

“Education is the foundation of dignity and progress. By supporting these talented girls and high-achieving students, we are investing in the future of Jharkhand and promoting gender equality,” remarked Dr. Adv. Arif Nasir Butt, Ambassador in India, IHRC (India) National President, and Head of the Diplomatic Mission in India, who attended the event as Chief Guest.

The programme, expertly organised by Zonal Volunteer Coordinator Arif Raza, was graced by distinguished guests, including Police Incharge Manish Kumar, Vivek Dubey, District Coordinator Reena Devi, and several other respected community leaders.

Building Bridges Between Civil Society and the Community

The event exemplified the commitment of IHRC and PJHRF to empowering youth, promoting education, and supporting equal opportunities for girls. By rewarding academic achievement and providing practical support, the organisations aim to inspire a new generation of responsible, ambitious citizens.

A Call to Action for Continued Support

“Let us continue to work together to create a society where every child—regardless of gender—can realise their full potential,” concluded Dr. Adv. Arif Nasir Butt.

The IHRC and PJHRF express their gratitude to all guests, volunteers, and community members who made this event possible, and reaffirm their commitment to advancing human rights, education, and social justice throughout India.

Prepared by:
Dr. Adv. Arif Nasir Butt
Ambassador in India, IHRC (India) National President,
Head of the Diplomatic Mission in India

The post 🚴‍♀️ Empowering Excellence: IHRC and PJHRF Award Girls and Top Students in Itki, Ranchi first appeared on ihrc.news.

Bauchi, Nigeria, 3 June 2025 – In a significant demonstration of commitment to educational empowerment and youth development, the World Youth Movement – International Human Rights Commission (WYM-IHRC), in partnership with the MUMSA Initiative, has launched a major programme aimed at returning children to school in Bauchi State, Nigeria.

The initiative, entitled “Bring Back to School,” is designed to provide direct educational support to 1,000 children in the region, addressing the persistent challenges faced by vulnerable students and their families. This collaborative programme seeks to bridge the educational gap, ensuring that every child, regardless of background or socio-economic status, has access to quality learning opportunities.

As part of this effort, representatives of WYM-IHRC and the MUMSA Initiative visited Fuddiya Nursery and Primary School in Bauchi, where they delivered:

• Essential educational materials
• School uniforms
• Footwear
• Books
• Other critical learning resources

This comprehensive support package recognises the transformative role of education in the lives of young people, equipping them with the necessary tools to become the leaders and innovators of tomorrow.

Leadership and Partnership

The success of the “Bring Back to School” initiative reflects the effective collaboration between the WYM-IHRC Global Coordinator and the MUMSA Initiative Programme Manager. Their joint efforts underscore the value of partnership in advancing sustainable development goals and fostering a culture of civic engagement and social responsibility.

The World Youth Movement – International Human Rights Commission (WYM-IHRC) is an international platform dedicated to the advancement of fundamental human rights, youth capacity-building, and the promotion of active citizenship. Similarly, the MUMSA Initiative is committed to empowering future generations through targeted programmes in education and holistic well-being.

Impact and Recognition

This programme stands as a testament to the tangible results that can be achieved when individuals and organisations unite in pursuit of a shared vision. The presence and active participation of WYM-IHRC and MUMSA Initiative staff, alongside local stakeholders, exemplifies a collective dedication to uplifting young minds and championing universal access to education.

Issued by:
Sulaiman Ashiru
SMM Peace Ambassador
SMM MNVC & Global Coordinator of WYM at IHRCHQ

The post WYM-IHRC and MUMSA Initiative Collaborate to Restore Access to Education for Children in Bauchi, Nigeria first appeared on ihrc.news.

Bishop Dr Samsher Khan, IHRC Peace Ambassador and High Commissioner MNVC SMM IHRC, along with IHRC press journalists, visited a school in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand State, India, today. Many community representatives attended, including Dr R. Staphen Diyali, Zonal Volunteer Coordinator and IHRC Investigative Journalist, as well as official IHRC volunteers Rev. Vijay Paul Tangani and Puja.

During the event, children were delighted to receive gifts of chocolates, notebooks, pencils, and erasers. The school principal, Radhika Diyali, was honored with an official IHRC Certificate and BBH ID for her outstanding contributions to the educational community.

Bishop Dr Samsher Khan delivered an inspiring speech emphasizing the importance of respecting human rights and promoting mutual respect regardless of religious or cultural differences. He also stressed the critical role of children as the future of the nation, highlighting the necessity of providing them with proper education and emotional support.

The meeting also focused on discussing further cooperation and IHRC’s continued support for local communities. Attendees learned about ways IHRC can assist, which received a positive response from local residents.

Bishop Dr Samsher Khan expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to work with the International Human Rights Commission and extended special thanks to His Excellency Professor H.C. Rafal Marcin Wasik IHRC Alliance Secretary-General, and Head of IHRC Alliance Press Department, Dawid Szablowski, for their invaluable support and commitment.

Bishop Dr.H.E. Samsher Khan
IHRC Peace Ambassador
MNVC SMM IHRC
IHRC Alliance Press Journalist

The post International Human Rights Commission IHRC Corporation Visits School in Uttarakhand Promoting Education and Human Rights first appeared on ihrc.news.

To mark International Women’s Day 2025, a UK-based geoscientist, data scientist, and advocate for youth and women empowerment with a background in petroleum geoscience and extensive experience in data science and machine learning, Promise Ekeh has organized a one-day workshop on digital literacy education for Delta Secondary Schools across Warri and its environs on Friday, aimed at empowering young girls with the skills and confidence to pursue careers in technology, science, and leadership.

Under the auspices of ‘Empower Her Empower the Future’, the workshop was hosted at the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Warri, Main Auditorium, bringing together around 220 secondary school girls comprising 11 schools across Warri and its surrounding areas.

During her welcome address, Ekeh underscored that the vision of ‘Empower Her’ is to establish a world where every girl, regardless of her background, possesses the tools and confidence to excel in STEM fields, leadership positions, and beyond. She noted that the initiative is a movement toward gender equity, ensuring young girls have equal access to opportunities in technology and leadership.

Adding, “The Empower Her initiative is driven by the mission to equip young girls with digital skills, leadership training, and access to mentorship opportunities to prepare them for the evolving job market and global stage.”

Lola Aworanti-Ekugo, a distinguished expert in digital technology and innovation, delivered a keynote speech in which she shared her journey and underscored the importance of perseverance, continuous learning, and embracing opportunities in STEM fields.

In addition, the event featured a distinguished lineup of inspiring female professionals from diverse backgrounds, including Mrs. Gbemi Anderson, Prof. Juliet Emudianuge, Pastor Adeshola Adebayo, Jolomi Adiotomre, and Dr. Zainab Titus, who delivered talks on personal development, digital literacy, and career pathways.

A major highlight of the day was a panel discussion that covered topics on students’ careers, challenges, and advice for overcoming barriers, as well as a quiz competition that tested students on STEM-related topics and awarded top performers with prizes, promoting a spirit of academic achievement.

In the aftermath of the workshop’s success, Ekeh disclosed that ‘Empower Her’ will initiate a year-long mentorship program for 30 carefully selected girls who demonstrated a strong passion, potential, and desire to excel in STEM, digital literacy, and leadership through their responses to various essay topics.

Highlighting the comprehensive support they would receive, including laptops and internet access throughout the program, to ensure they have the necessary resources to excel.

Reported by:
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head of Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria

The post IWD: UK-Based Data Scientist, Promise Ekeh Extends Digital Literacy Education to Delta Schools first appeared on ihrc.news.

With the aim of achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, everything is now ready to bring this course to the public through the Shri Hela Higher Education Academy, with the aim of enabling low-income students and professionals in Sri Lanka to achieve their life goals and conquer the world by expanding their English knowledge and joining the international community.

According to a concept by Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake, the Sri Lanka Commissioner of the International Human Rights Commission, Founder / Chairman / Director General of the Shri Hela Higher Education Academy and the Shri Hela Cultural Collaboration Foundation, with the aim of achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, this course is now ready to be brought to the public through the Shri Hela Higher Education Academy with the aim of enabling low-income students and professionals in Sri Lanka to achieve their life goals and conquer the world by expanding their English knowledge, which is lacking, and joining the international community.

This course is designed to target the Cambridge English B2, C1 exam and is conducted by the Shri Hela Higher Education Academy and Kingsway Language Center.

The lecturers for this Diploma course are:

MR. JAYATISSA ATHAUDAHETTI.
He brings over 30 years of distinguished experience in English education. Having studied at the British Council and earned a National Diploma in English from the Government Technical College, he is also certified by Cambridge University with FCE and TKT qualifications. Jayatissa has prepared countless candidates for Cambridge University exams, including young learners, CAE, CPE, TKT, BEC, and IELTS.

DR. MERRIaL PEIRIS
Ph.D – University of Colombo
M.Phil – University of Colombo
M.Ed (TESOL)
PGDE (TESL)
B.A – University of Kelaniya
Teacher Training Certificate

MR. V.G.C. NALEEN.
BA in English and ELT (OUSL)
MA in TESL (PGIE) (Reading)
DIT (UCSC)
CC, CL (Toastmaster International – USA)

MR. NEEL JAYASINGHE
BA in English, MA in Linguistics (English), M.Phil (English), Post Graduate Diploma in English, Diploma in English for Professionals, Diploma in English for Teacher Educators, Certificate Course in Linguistics, Certificate Course in Teaching Grammar.

The first phase of this program, fully sponsored by the International Human Rights Commission -IHRC and the Sri Hela Cultural Cooperation Foundation, is scheduled to begin classes for 300 students on January 5, 2025.

“Because what we do today, we do for Generations”

Reported:
Dr. Chrishantha Dissanayake
Commissioner of Sri Lanka
International Human Rights Commission
IHRC News – Investigative journalist

The post IHRC and Shri Hela Foundation Offer Full Scholarships for English Diploma to 3000 Sri Lankan Student first appeared on ihrc.news.

The program was held in the Kulgam region, attracting a large number of residents, traffic officers, and IHRC volunteers, led by Mohmad Husain Lone and Mohmad Husain Bhat. The event was also attended by the Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO) Kulgam, Mr. Abrar Ahmad Kripak. During the event, Mr. Kripak and the official volunteers presented certificates of appreciation to those who consistently followed the traffic rules. The certificates recognised their commitment to road safety and responsible driving.

Mr. Abrar Ahmad Kripak and the IHRC volunteers appealed to the public to obey traffic rules, reminding them that road safety is a shared responsibility. ‘Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. It is crucial that everyone follows the rules, which will contribute to smoother and safer traffic on the roads.’ Mr. Kripak pointed out.
The initiative is part of a wider effort by the Transnational Intergovernmental Organization International Human Rights Commission – IHRC and the Department of Transport to promote responsible driving practices and create awareness about the rights and responsibilities of road users.

According to the World Bank, India records around 150,000 road fatalities every year, putting the country in the lead in terms of road accidents worldwide. The reasons for this include a rapid increase in the number of vehicles and inadequate road infrastructure. The problem is also exacerbated by inadequate knowledge of traffic rules and their widespread violations — for example, ignoring the requirement for motorcyclists to wear helmets or use mobile phones while driving.

To address these challenges, the World Bank has estimated that India needs to spend $109 billion to upgrade infrastructure, educate drivers, and strengthen enforcement. However, this is only part of what is needed to improve safety on India’s roads; equally important is cooperation between international organisations, such as the Transnational Intergovernmental Organization International Human Rights Commission – IHRC, and local transport authorities to effectively raise awareness among road users and reduce casualties.

The educational program being organised is a step towards safer Indian roads. Activities are not only aimed at rewarding responsible drivers but also at educating the public and encouraging shared responsibility for road safety.

Reported:
Mohmad Husain Lone
IHRC Volunteer

The post Improving Road Safety in India first appeared on ihrc.news.