Syrians criticize new education curriculum for promoting Islamist agenda

Syria's new government has faced backlash for changing the education curriculum, which critics say promotes an Islamist agenda. The changes include removing references to the Assad regime and pre-Islamic history, raising concerns about the country's secular identity. Education Minister Nazir al-Qadri stated that the old curriculum will remain until committees review the changes. He acknowledged the need to modify some Islamic education content, including interpretations of Quranic verses. The amendments have drawn criticism from both conservative and secular Syrians, who argue that the changes distort history and could deepen societal divisions.