Olaf Taw Association for Syriac Language mourns passing of its General Director Michel Romi

ZALIN (QAMISHLI), North and East Syria — On the morning of Friday, July 11, 2025, the Olaf Taw Association for Syriac Language, along with all institutions of the Bethnahrin National Council (Mawtbo Umthoyo d’Bethnahrin, MUB) and members of the Syriac (Chaldean–Assyrian–Aramean) people in Syria and the diaspora, received the news of the passing of Michel Romi, General Director of the Olaf Taw Association, at the age of 44 (1981–2025) in the city of Zalin (Qamishli), after a battle with illness.

Romi was born in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, raised in the city of Holeb (Aleppo) in northwestern Syria, and later moved to work in Hasakah in the Beth Nahrin region. He was married to Mrs. Maryam Abbo and they were blessed with a daughter, Christelle Romi.

During his time in Hasakah, Romi worked within the institutions of the Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria (DAARNES). In May 2024, he joined the Olaf Taw Association for Syriac Language.

Romi became known for his remarkable dedication to the Association. Over more than a year of service, he demonstrated a deep commitment and passion for promoting and teaching the Syriac language. Together with his colleagues, he played a significant role in developing a curriculum for Syriac language education and integrating it into the school system of the DAARNES.

The Olaf Taw Association began its work in 2014 under the umbrella of the Syriac Cultural Association and was officially established as an independent institution in 2016 in Zalin (Qamishli). Branches were later opened in Hasakah, Derik, and Qabre Hewore (Qahtaniyah).

The Association is dedicated to promoting classical Syriac, developing educational curricula, and training Syriac language teachers.