Syriac Orthodox Bishop Bahhi and Syrian Transitional Education Minister Halabi discuss advancing higher education in Daramsuq

DARAMSUQ — Syriac Orthodox Patriarchal Vicar for Youth Affairs and Christian Formation Bishop Mor Andraus Bahhi met with Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research of the Syrian Transitional Government (STG) Dr. Marwan Halabi in Daramsuq (Damascus). The two discussed initiatives to strengthen Syria’s academic and scientific institutions.

Acting under the guidance of Syriac Orthodox Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, Bishop Bahhi was joined by senior church representatives. Among them were Dr. Rakan Rzouq, President of Antioch Private University, which is affiliated with the Syriac Orthodox Church, legal advisor Louay Osi, and member of the Patriarchal Endowments Committee Maher Kourieh.

Discussions centered on the current state of Antioch Private University and the ministry’s vision for advancing private higher education across Syria. Both parties underscored the pivotal role of universities in fostering civil peace and contributing to sustainable development amid Syria’s ongoing challenges.

The meeting reflects the Syriac Orthodox Church’s commitment to promoting cultural and linguistic diversity in Syria, while supporting the integration of Syriac educational institutions into the broader academic landscape.