2.8: Culture (1) الثقافة

Learning Objectives

In this section, you will learn about:

• Education in Arab countries.

Education and Studying (التعليم والدراسة / Al taaleem wa al dirasah) in Arab countries:

Education in Arab countries is made up of various systems, ranging from traditional religious schools to modern, state-run institutions.

1. Islamic Influence: Islamic education has been historically central in Arab countries. Many children attend Quranic schools where they learn Arabic and Islamic studies and memorize the Quran. These schools often provide a foundation in Islamic principles and teachings.

2. School Education Systems: Most Arab countries have formal education systems that consist of primary, preparatory, and secondary levels. These systems are influenced by Western models and often follow a curriculum that includes subjects such as mathematics, science, languages, and social studies:

• First to sixth grade: Primary Education Level (التعليم الابتدائي / al taeleem al iptida’ee).

At this level, students from both genders share the same classrooms.

• Seventh to ninth grade: Preparatory Education Level (التعليم الإعدادي / al taelim al 'eadady).

At this level, students are separated in schools based on gender.

• Tenth to Twelfth grade: Secondary Education (التعليم الثانوي / al taelim al thanawi), which is the equivalent of High School.

At this level, students are separated in schools based on gender as well.

School education in Arab countries is compulsory. However, the age range differs from one Arab country to another. The end of the compulsory education is marked by national exams depending on the country. In some Arab countries, it is marked by passing the national exam taken after the end of ninth grade at around the age of 15, whereas in others, it is marked by passing all subjects in the national exam held after the end of the last year of secondary school, which is twelfth grade, at around the age of 18. These exams are held by the governments and ministries of education in Arab countries, and the exam questions are identical nationwide to ensure equality between all students.

At the preparatory level, final exams of the ninth grade are carried out nationally at the same time. The result of these exams determines if the student goes to the "general" secondary schools or the technical secondary schools. Technical secondary schools include industrial and agricultural schools for male and female students, crafts schools for female students, and commercial and computer science schools for both. All must attend this basic level of education.

At the beginning of grade 10 of secondary school, those who go to "general" secondary school have to choose to continue their studies in either the "literary section" (الفرع الأدبي / al fira' al adabi) or the "scientific section" (الفرع العلمي / al fira' al ilmi). The final exam at the end of secondary school changes depending on the Arab country. It is called (بكالوريا/Baccalaureate), (امتحان الثانويّة العامّة/Imtihan Al Thanawiyah Al Ammah), or (توجيهي/Tawjihi), and this exam is a prerequisite for admission to higher education institutions and universities, as it determines the eligibility of students. After graduating from secondary school, students can choose their major for higher education depending on the national exam results.

3. Gender Disparities: Although efforts to improve access to education for both boys and girls have been made, gender disparities continue in many Arab countries, especially in rural and conservative areas. Girls may face barriers such as cultural norms, lack of access to schools, and early marriage, which can hinder their educational attainment.

4. Language of Instruction: Arabic is the primary language of instruction in most Arab countries, reflecting the importance of preserving linguistic and cultural heritage. However, in some contexts, especially in higher education and technical fields, English or French may be used as languages of instruction, and these two languages are taught in school since grade 1 in many Arab countries.

5. Religious Education: Along with secular education, many Arab countries offer religious education as part of the curriculum, teaching students about Islam and its principles for Muslim students and Christianity and its principles for Christian students. This education may vary in intensity and focus depending on the country and its religious demographics.

6. Reforms and Initiatives: Several Arab countries have undertaken education reforms aimed at improving quality, increasing access, and modernizing curricula to better prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century. These reforms often focus on areas such as teacher training, curriculum development, and the integration of technology in education.

7. International Collaboration: Arab countries often collaborate with international organizations and donor agencies to improve educational outcomes. Initiatives such as teacher training programs, literacy campaigns, and infrastructure development projects receive support from organizations like UNESCO, UNICEF, and the World Bank.

8. School Uniforms: Most Arab countries use school uniforms in order for all students to be equal and to be disciplined.

School Uniforms in Syria:

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