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Good Health and Well-being

Good Health and Well-being – Sustainable development goals in Syria

Sustainable Development /
Good Health and Well-being - The Third Goal of Sustainable Development Goals

Good Health and Well-being - Sustainable development goals in Syria

Achieving a state of optimal health and wellness is a prominent problem that the modern world faces. Maintaining good health is challenging in today’s polluted world. Everyone is aware that good health is essential for any living thing, including humans, to live happily. Everything from their productivity to how well they handle difficult situations is impacted by their general health. Good health can only result from good nutrition. We are aware that if we are to pursue sustainable development, realistic goals of good health and well-being are required.

Achieving Good Health and Well-being

The achievement of this goal can be measured by the decline in infant mortality among children under the age of five due to:

  1. The inclusion of universal health coverage in the development plan.
  2. Promoting education and awareness of sexual and reproductive health.
  3. Educating the workforce in the health sector.

From 2010 to 2015, the Syrian health sector made remarkable progress. This includes an increase in life expectancy at birth and a decrease in infant mortality brought about by better nutritional conditions, more focus on pregnant women and reproductive health, and vaccinations. In addition to other elements like the growth of education, the development of the environmental awareness index, and the management of infectious diseases.

What are some ideal health and well-being indicators?

There are four indicators:

  1. Lowering the maternal mortality rate worldwide.
  2. Lowering the infant mortality rate and the mortality of kids under five.
  3. Ending pandemics like AIDS, tuberculosis, and malaria.
  4. Reducing the number of early non-communicable illness fatalities.

Syria was deemed malaria-free and had attained a significant portion of the indices of good health and well-being. This was all done before the crisis and its consequences took place. But because medical supervision and health care were lacking in many places that were desperately in need, this resulted in a deterioration in those accomplishments. [1]

Is Syria’s healthcare system capable of achieving that goal?

Syria’s healthcare system is currently making every effort to carry on with its operations. This is true despite the significant loss of infrastructure, including medical facilities like hospitals, as well as the emigration or loss of specialists. This is in an effort to provide free healthcare services based on need, with the assistance of organizations and associations. This goal is achieved and supported in part by primary health services, health, and service education services, and psychological support services, all of which the Child Welfare Association continues to offer in the Lattakia governorate. [2]

Similar goals are shared by the Aga Khan Health Services (AKHS) in Syria, including expert consultations in many fields, strengthening and improving current healthcare systems, in addition to encouraging people to promote and adopt healthy lifestyles. [3]

Several other parties attempt to offer health support in accordance with their skills. Because of the current conditions, we urgently need to close the health gap brought forth by the conflict and the economic sanctions that are imposing restrictions on the import of medical supplies and equipment that are necessary in order to attain the objective of good health and well-being.

We, in the Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative, seek to encourage Syrian women to take care of their health at all levels. As well as paying attention to health care instructions that must be educated and adhered to.

Also read:

References: 

[1] Arab Development Portal

[2] Child Care Association

[3] AKHS

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International Day of Education

International Day of Education

International Celebration /
International Day of Education

International Day of Education

The International Day of Education is an occasion set up every year with the goal to revive the importance of education and its role in building nations. This day clarifies the importance of education in building international development and achieving peace. Receiving a good education is one of the human rights. In addition to that, it builds an individual and social personality that contributes to achieving a sustainable future.

“We must work more on intensifying efforts to advance with the fourth goal of the Sustainable Development Goals, which calls for ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.“
– Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres. [1]

The International Day of Education

1- The General Assembly of The United Nations proclaimed the 24th of January as the International Day of Education to celebrate the role of education in achieving peace and development. [2]
2- The general assembly of The United Nations decided on the third of December, 2018 to establish the International Day of Education. The International Day of Education was celebrated for the first time on 24/January/2019. [3]

As it was a clear continuation of the fourth goal of Sustainable Development Goals which states “ Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all“ According to the UNESCO World Education Report, changing the future requires us to refind balance in our relationships with each other, as well as our relationship with nature and technology that infiltrated our lives, and to deal with the numerous opportunities of scientific breakthroughs, which also bring along serious concerns about equality, inclusion and democratic participation. [4]

Objectives of the International Day of Education

There is no doubt that the international days celebrated by the United Nations and international organizations reflect the significance of the celebrated subject.  In addition, the existence of international days aims to encourage the world to achieve its related goals. 

Speaking of goals, these are some of the goals of the International Day of Education:

  1. Achieving Sustainable Development Goals for the year 2023, because providing education is basically one of the Sustainable Development Goals, and these goals come together to promote a safe and sustainable community.
  2. Improving the level of education: on this day, communities and international organizations are encouraged to raise awareness of the importance of education. 
  3. Dissolving the poverty problem, since illiteracy is closely related to poverty.

Education is a human right, and on the International Day of Education, we shine a light on the most important human right which is (education). This aims to spread education in developing countries and prevent its monopolization by developed communities. Furthermore, the right to education is stated expressly in /Article 26/ of The Universal Declaration of Human Rights; which calls for free and obligatory elementary education. The Convention on the Rights of the Child – adopted in 1989 – goes further and states that higher education shall be made available to all. [1]

Celebration of the International Day of Education in 2023

This year, the celebration of the International Day of Education will be a platform to present the most important transformations that must be developed in order to save the basic right of all to education and build a future characterized as more sustainable, inclusive and peaceful. 

The celebration of this day will spark discussions on how to promote education as a public work and benefit, and how to guide digital transformation, support educators, and preserve the planet Earth. It will also release the latent potential of each person for them to be able to contribute to the achievement of our collective well-being and the preservation of our mutual home. [2]

The Challenges of Achieving Inclusive Education

The importance of education lies in the fact that it forms an escape from poverty and a way to find a promising future.  However, there are approximately (265 million) children and adolescents in the world who have neither the access nor the means to complete their education. There are (617) million children and adolescents who cannot read or perform basic mathematical operations. In addition, less than 40% of girls in Africa – south of the desert – were able to complete secondary education. And nearly four million children, boys, and girls, in refugee camps are not enrolled in schools. All of this is a violation of the right to education for all those individuals and this is unacceptable.

Violating the right to education and not securing it will negatively affect developing countries that are making their way toward a better future. It will also cause a gender inequality cycle and a lack of inclusive and equal educational opportunities. [1] 

The UNESCO Report on the Future of Education

The UNESCO report on the future of education portrays the reality of digital technologies, climate change, democratic decline, societal polarization, and the future of work. It also urges every member of society to work to achieve the desired radical change in the future of education. We can also benefit from millions of individual and collective actions marked by courage, leadership, resistance, and creativity.

To read more about the UNESCO report on the future of education, from here: UNESCO report.

USW Initiative and International Day of Education

One of the main goals of the initiative is to provide educational opportunities for young women and men through free online courses. Through these opportunities, the initiative seeks to achieve the fourth Sustainable Development Goal, along with the goal of gender equality. On this day, we cannot help but focus on the importance of education in building a peaceful and sustainable society.

International Day of Education is the ladder through which we can advance education in the world. It is also the unified and only way to solve the problem of poverty and ignorance and achieve the goals of sustainable development. On this day, we invite everyone to reflect on the importance of education and to gather voices to call for science.

Also read:

References:

[1] UN

[2] UNESCO

[3] MOE

[4] UNESDOC

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Taghreed Qutrib

A Success Story: Taghreed Qutrib

Success Story /
Taghreed Qutrib

A Success Story: Taghreed Qutrib

“Passion is the measurement of success.” Taghreed Qutrib and the Passion for Writing.

In a time where blogging on social media platforms has become a shortcut and a wide space for both the good and bad. Writer and engineer Taghreed Qutrib tells us about her extensive experience as a creative woman. Each of her books cost her a lot of time, experience, and maturity.

Who is Taghreed Qutrib? How do you introduce yourself to the Uplifting Syrian Women community?

Taghreed Qutrib is a civil engineer and an activist in the cultural field. I love literature and I write about my passions, dreams, and wishes.

How did you take your first steps in writing? Tell us about your first book.

My first book, Alive in Love, a collection of stories published in 2014, was the result of years of working. In it, I chose stories that I’ve written at different times over about twenty years.

What are the difficulties that you’ve encountered and how did you overcome them?

One who has a passion for writing does not see difficulties in the world of literature. However, there are periods that I call (periods of intellectual hibernation) when I feel that I am repeating myself in my writing, which makes me abandon writing for a while. In it, I resort to reading more to enrich my language and thought, and after that, I return to writing in a literary and intellectual manner, which I can say is richer and more mature than before.

What is your advice for anyone searching for themselves and their tools in literature?

In the beginning, there is no advice other than reading, and for the amateur to know the appropriate type of literature for his intellectual capacities. For example, many try to write poetry but are very far from writing in this difficult art form. That depends primarily on rhythm and measure, so they (arrange) or line up some phrases and then append them with two letters that are repeated in each phrase, then claim that it’s poetry and call those letters a rhyme. 

In my opinion, those are intruders who distort the literary scene, and they can write thoughts, which is the right start, free from the laws of poetry.

From your point of view, what is the difference between a successful person and an ordinary one?

A successful person has passion and loves what he does. Love is the basis of any work, it is its spirit and continuity. Love what you do until you do what you love.

What are your next dreams and goals?

In the circumstances my country’s going through, the space for dreams has diminished and is now confined to one, shared by all Syrians, that is to overcome this crisis we are all going through. So, I can say that my first dream is to get over writing about worries and oppression. Perhaps at this age, we have to go beyond the phase of dreams, as dreams tend to make us lazy. Perhaps, we have to make dreams into short-term goals and strive to achieve them without any delay. Currently, I aspire to have my own line of writing and to publish my fourth book in the Arab region.

From the Uplifting Syrian Women initiative

We would like to thank Taghreed for enriching us with her story, and we are proud of her successful and inspiring career rich in literary achievements Alive in Love, Ishtar’s Confessions, Burgul Naam, and we hope that her fourth book sees the light soon. We recommend that everyone should take a look at those wonderful stories which touch our hearts. And we agree with Taghreed, as working with passion and love gives fantastic results that everyone feels and praises, no matter the field.

Also read:

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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Women's Physical Health /
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a major concern for women these days. If you have entered adolescence or teenage years and feel that your hair is falling out profusely, that you have hirsutism in separate areas of your body, or that you experience irregular periods, this article may direct you to the problem you are suffering from, or urges you to go to a specialist for an accurate diagnosis.

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?

It is a hormonal disorder that is common in women, especially during puberty, in which the ovaries grow many groups of small fluid-filled sacs, and fail to produce ova. The reason behind this syndrome is still not completely clear, but there are several important factors, including increased insulin. Or low-grade inflammation, and there is also a role for the genetic factor in its occurrence. [1]

How do you detect symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?

These symptoms often appear around the time of the first period during puberty, or they may occur later in response to some predisposing factor such as being overweight. [1]

For the diagnosis of this syndrome, at least two of the following signs must be present: Irregular menstrual cycles, as well as short or long menstrual cycles, are among the most common signs. Hyperandrogenism and subsequent symptoms resulting from high levels of male hormones, such as excessive hirsutism on the face and body, severe acne, or male-pattern baldness. Ovarian cyst, when the ovaries swell and fill with the sacs that surround them, leads to dysfunction.

Does PCOS stop here or are there complications I could have?

Treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome is essential. Because, like other diseases, if neglected, it will lead to other complications [1], including:

  • Infertility.
  • Spontaneous abortion or obstructed labor.
  • Having type-2 diabetes or prediabetes.
  • Sleep apnea.
  • Depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.
  • Endometrial cancer.
  • Metabolic syndrome is a group of medical conditions that include high blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, or triglyceride levels in the body, and the resulting increased risk of heart attacks.

How to diagnose PCOS?

There is no confirmed examination for the presence of the syndrome in the patient, but the doctor may start by asking some questions that are indicative of this disorder, first: about periods and weight changes, then follow up with a physical examination that aims to look for signs of excessive hair growth, acne, and insulin resistance. In addition to the following checks:

  • Pelvic examination, as examination is done visually and manually to look for any growths or abnormal structures.
  • Blood tests, to measure the levels of hormones in the body, and this test is useful in excluding other causes of changes in the menstrual cycle.
  • Ultrasound examination, in order to detect the shape of the ovaries and the thickness of the endometrium. [2]

As for the additional tests that tell us about the presence or absence of complications, they are:

  • Periodic examinations of blood pressure, glucose tolerance, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.
  • Screening for depression and anxiety.
  • Screening for obstructive sleep apnea. [2]

What is the pharmacological treatment protocol for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?

In the event that the doctor diagnoses the syndrome, a group of medications is prescribed, namely:

  1. Combined contraceptive pills, which reduce the production of androgens in the body, regulate the level of estrogen, and thus reduce the appearance of acne and excessive hair growth, as well as reduce the risk of endometrial cancer.
  2. Progesterone treatment, which helps regulate the menstrual cycle and reduces the risk of endometrial cancer, when taken for a period ranging between 10-14 days every month or two.
  3. The doctor’s recommendations regarding medications that assist in the ovulation process, such as Letrozole, which may play an effective role in stimulating the ovaries, Clomiphene which is taken in the first phase of the menstrual cycle, and Metformin which improves insulin resistance. Additionally,  in the event that the patient has prediabetes, Metformin can reduce the chances of the condition worsening to type 2 diabetes, and it also plays a role in weight loss.
  4. Reproductive gonadotropins are given by injection.
  5. The importance of lifestyle in addition to drug therapy. [2]
  6. Changing the patient’s lifestyle helps to reduce the severity of this syndrome. Some of these changes:
  • Maintaining a healthy weight plays an essential role in lowering insulin and androgen levels and restoring ovulation.
  • Reducing carbohydrate consumption.
  • Increase physical activity, as doing exercise helps lower blood sugar levels. [2]

The high prevalence of this syndrome among women requires us to be more aware of its existence and its symptoms, in order to reach the correct diagnosis and thus avoid many unwanted complications. The Uplifting Syrian Women initiative supports the need to raise health awareness about gynecological diseases and urges women not to neglect any sign or symptom, because it may hide an important problem behind it.

Also read:

References:

[1] Mayo Clinic

[2] Mayo Clinic

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School Dropout

School Dropout- Causes and Solutions

Social and Humanitarian Issues /
School Dropout- Causes and Solutions

School Dropout- Causes and Solutions

Clear indicators of deteriorating educational conditions are high crime rates, the spread of poverty, and many others. But the most dangerous of these indicators – which can be both a cause and an effect – is a school dropout.

This issue is one of the most serious problems a nation can encounter because it is a glaring indicator of poor living conditions, not to mention its detrimental effects on society, including the spread of ignorance and begging, as well as the disastrous outcomes that will manifest in the near and long term.

The Definition of School Dropout

The school dropout phenomenon is defined as the student’s interruption and non-completion of education. It is considered one of the most dangerous phenomena that are widely spread in various societies, as it affects children negatively and abstracts the growth and development of society in different areas of life. [1]
In order to address the phenomenon of school dropout, it is necessary to shed light on the factors that lead to it.

Causes

The main causes of school dropouts are as follows:

  • The deterioration of the economic situation:
    Economic conditions play a major factor in the spread of this problem in any country, and the high cost of education is undeniable. It is true that enrollment in public schools in many countries is free, but the cost of school supplies and the need for private lessons often increase the cost of education to a great extent, which is challenging for parents, especially if there is more than one student in the family.
  • Child labor:
    Poor economic conditions push many parents to utilize their children as laborers rather than allowing them to exercise their right to education. This not only deprives children of their right to education but also forces them to perform arduous professions because they do not have a degree and these professions do not correspond with their abilities and age.
  • Neglect in schools:
    Negligence is widespread in schools, especially public ones, with regard to the issue of school dropouts. This is due to the lack of care many teachers, principals, and mentors have for students who drop out of school because they feel it has become a common occurrence in our communities or that it doesn’t directly affect them.
  • Educational principles in schools:
    Recently, many teachers prefer to take the easy way of helping and supporting outstanding students to provide them with opportunities and possibilities for success. This is accompanied by teachers forgetting their primary role in supporting disadvantaged students. That is because of school dropouts, as they often attribute characteristics to such students that make them feel useless going to school, which then becomes a place associated with negative feelings such as feeling inferior and not being welcomed.
  • Outcomes of school commitment:
    The situation of graduates in many countries, especially Arab ones, has a direct impact on the way children and their families view school. When graduates’ financial situations are discussed frequently and the challenges they encounter finding jobs paying a good wage, parents’ and even students’ opinions of education generally shift. It makes them see studying as a failed investment of time and financial resources. Therefore, they prefer to shorten the path – according to their words – and follow other methods that may guarantee them a more stable future in their view compared to what may be included in the study, and this matter encourages school dropouts.
  • Underage marriages:
    Child marriage is a widespread problem in Arab society in general and Syrian society in particular. Many families resort to this matter because of outdated cultural legacies, in addition to using poor economic conditions as a reasonable excuse, according to society, for child trafficking. Unfortunately, at the local level, the war had the greatest role in reinforcing the causes of school dropouts. In fact, it was a major cause of school dropouts in many Syrian regions.

School Dropout Risks

Dropping out of school entails many risks, such as:

  • High crime rate due to neglecting children and leaving them vulnerable to situations that could make them easy victims for criminals. At the same time, inadequate ideals are planted in them that prepare them to become criminals in the future.
  • The scientific and social advances of a society regressing and descending into ignorance. To overcome social ignorance, society must adopt a culture of study, which goes beyond simply learning facts.
  • It must be noted that children’s distance from the school atmosphere – which should be an example of social and cultural diversity – makes them confined to a closed environment, which leads to the emergence of intolerant individuals who are not accepting of others.

Proposed Solutions to Reduce this Phenomenon

The solutions lie in the hands of the law. Clear laws and severe penalties must be put in place for anyone who prevents a child from completing his education.

It is also important to apply the following:

  • Teachers monitor all students with the same level of interest.
  • Providing the necessary tools for free education within schools in order to make education available to all and to reduce the phenomenon of school dropouts.
  • Provide salaries commensurate with the teachers’ efforts, in order to ensure the quality of their work, and prevent private lessons in general.
  • Enforce strict punishment with regard to child labor and child marriage to prevent parents from exploiting their children.
  • Improving the general economic situation of citizens.
  • Providing job opportunities for fresh graduates, which gives motivation to children and their families to take an interest in education and study.

School Dropout in Syria

Although there are laws that support compulsory and free education and criminalize child labor, such as:

  1. Article 36 of Law No. 21 of 2021 prevents child labor under the age of fifteen. It tries to achieve suitable working conditions for children over the age of fifteen. [2]
  2. Article 6 of the same previous law states: “Every child has the right to enjoy public rights and freedoms, and to obtain protection and care without any discrimination based on gender, origin, race, color, language, religion, or any other basis.” [2]
  3. Article 2 of Law No. 7 of 2012 states: “All parents of Syrian children (male and female) whose children are between 6-15 years old are required to enroll their children in basic education schools.” [3]

Unfortunately, all the previous laws are not applied on the ground, and therefore we see that the phenomenon of school dropout is still widespread. Aspects of discrimination between male and female children remain unsupervised, except rarely, in addition to children working under arduous and difficult conditions, even for those who are older than them.

According to the United Nations report for the year 2021: “Inside Syria, there are more than 2.4 million children who suffer from school dropouts, and about 40% of them are girls, and this number may increase in 2020 due to the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic, which has exacerbated the disruption of education in Syria.” One out of every three schools inside Syria has been destroyed or damaged, which has led to a decrease in the number of schools compared to the number of attending students.

Children who are able to attend school often learn in overcrowded classrooms, and in buildings without sufficient water and sanitation facilities, electricity, heating or ventilation. The United Nations is able to confirm nearly 700 attacks on education facilities and personnel in Syria since the investigation of grave violations against children began. Last year, 52 attacks were confirmed. [4]

In our initiative, we realize that building and protecting the homeland stems from building an educated and cultured society. This is what drives us to make science accessible to all, and to work together to reduce the phenomenon of school dropouts, especially among women. In an attempt to reach all those who have not been fortunate in education for one of the aforementioned reasons, school dropout is a clear problem in our society. Thinking that this problem is small and unimportant leads to exacerbation. The only way to a better future is to be eager to teach and educate future generations. It is our responsibility as individuals to inform parents and kids about the negative effects of dropping out of school and assist them in making the best choice.

Also read:

References:

[1] Mawdoo3

[2] SANA

[3] Parliament Government

[4] Relief Web

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Antoinette Najib

Antoinette Najib: A Woman of History

Woman of history /
Woman of History: Antoinette Najib

Antoinette Najib: A Woman of History

The late artist Antoinette Najib’s career was associated with many distinctive features. Our descriptions of her would always catch us off, guard. The late artist presented a career full of artistic works, behind more than 150 diverse works, between theater, radio, television, and cinema.

The Syrian director, Muhammad Zuhair Rajab, said in her lamentation: “The beloved of all, and the one with the kind heart.” This was after her death was announced in Damascus on August 17, 2022, after a long artistic career in which she participated in many series, plays, and films. [2]

Who is Antoinette Najib?

The late artist Antoinette Najib Al-Balou’, a Syrian actress, was born in the city of Daraa and was the wife of the late artist Youssef Choueiri. She began her artistic life after she joined the Syrian Artists Syndicate in 1968. She participated in many works during her long artistic career, as she excelled in performing the role of the kind mother who watches over the comfort of her children, and she also presented several works of art on the stage and on Syrian radio. [1]

Antoinette Najib and Her Cinematic Debut

The first film with which the deceased entered the world of art is “Aaryat Bela Khataya”. It was produced in 1967 in Syria, and its events take place there. Its story revolves around three sisters whose life is hard after the death of their father, so they take wrong paths and decisions that lead them to work in prostitution.

The late had cinematic contributions during her career: including the movie “Four in Paradise Time” and the movie “Fake Up”; Which has not been shown yet, starring the artist Ayman Zidan, along with a group of Syrian actors.

Mama Naima

The role of the mother in her series had a special imprint that was distinguished by the late Antoinette Najib. Who among us cannot remember the name of the late woman without recalling the character “Naima” in the two parts of the  “Alfosoul Alarbaa” series? Naima, who was not actually a mother and could not start a family, but was present in the life of every house of the characters of the four seasons. She rejoices when they are happy, and grieve when they are sad, and tries to solve problems and express her opinion as she sees fit, as a mother and a person with extensive experience in life. Even if she was living within the walls of Malik Beyk Gurbar’s kitchen.

She was a devoted mother to her family, her artistic project, and everyone who knew her in the artistic community and in her private life. As Mohsen Ghazi, the head of the Syrian Artists Syndicate, mourned her when he said: “The departure of the great mother with her heart and tenderness – Antoinette Najib – left great sadness in the artistic community at all levels, as she is the lady of creativity and the loyal mother devoted to her artistic project.” [4]

The Impact and Legacy of Antoinette Najib Will Live on Forever

The health of the late artist Antoinette Najib deteriorated before her death, so she underwent dialysis sessions, and entered the hospital in a critical condition before her death due to a pulmonary effusion.

She left behind a great artistic legacy and a human impact that touched everyone who was with her or close to her. With her present spirit, despite her absence, high position, and distinguished imprint in the field of art, the name Antoinette Najib will remain immortalized in the memory of Syrians and the history of Syrian art.

The Most Prominent Works

Between a strong and well-established television star in the series “Sah al-Nom”, starring the artist Duraid Lahham, and “Alfosoul Alarbaa” series. For more than a quarter of a century, the late artist presented artistic performances full of passion and sincere feeling, one that no artist or actor can convey to the viewer unless they are thoroughly capable of performing their role. Whether it’s heroic or secondary roles, or even as a guest star.

For the late artist Antoinette Najib to return and complete her artistic career – which lasted for nearly half a century and more – and present an exciting series of diverse artworks. Among her most important works in the theater: are the play “Hot bel khereg”, the play “Faina”, the play “Alashjar Tamout Wakefa”, “Saradyb Alsanaye’ya”, and “Sahra Ma’a Abu Khalil Al-Qabbani”. [3]

While her most prominent TV works were: Al-Dabour, Ahlam La Tamout, Al-Jawarih, Okhwat Al Tourab, Ayam Alghadab, Bayt Jaddi, Hammam Al-Qishani, Al-Khawali,Ryah Alkhamaseen, Donia, Rosanna, Alfosoul Alarbaa, and many others. [3]

The legacy of Antoinette Najib will remain ever-present and immortalized in all future works of art. This is what we have become accustomed to from authentic Syrian art throughout the ages. From the first theatrical works to the current TV works. Hoping that Syrian TV will remain in the foreground.

Also read:

References:

[1] Elcinema

[2] Sky News

[3] Marefa

[4] Sana

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Distance Teaching- A Guide to Remote Work

Distance Teaching- A Guide to Remote Work

Remote Work /
Distance Teaching- A Guide to Remote Work

Distance Education- A Guide to Remote Work

The aiding solution that provides people with access to learning without having to leave their homes is distance education. It’s called (e-learning or online education). It refers to using the Internet to teach and learn different subjects at any time or place. Distance education was the key to this sort of education emerging as a result of the pressing need to learn and stay up with the rapid scientific and technological development of our time in order to fully utilize it.

For teachers, distance education goes further than that. Nowadays, a lot of teachers deliver lessons online using new educational technologies. These technologies have numerous advantages that simplify teachers’ lives. But there must be some drawbacks. Nonetheless, it has become clear that distance teaching has turned into a clear-cut business in Syria, where many teachers use it.

Distance Education

It is the way to go if you are a teacher or an expert in a particular field and wish to impart your knowledge to others. The tendency to create ideas that correspond to and interact with the present reality is constant. Thus, to keep up with modern reality, remote work has become a necessity in any profession.

This type of schooling first appeared around the end of the seventies of the nineteenth century. The starting point and the concept came from universities in Europe and America. It began by mailing students educational materials, which at the time took the form of books, audio cassettes, and video snippets. While university exams were still being taken on campus, this curriculum was effectively integrated and followed by the students. [1]

However, until Covid 19 emerged, most of the modern world was uncertain about distance teaching. The ongoing quarantine and the disruptions to universities and schools prompted a quest for alternative forms of instruction. Both educators and students have embraced distance education. It also provided lots of room for time management.

Advantages of Distance Education

Distance education offers several advantages and benefits, which have aided in its growth, methodological improvement, and acceptance as a trustworthy source of certification. Among its most significant and noticeable benefits:

  • The significant demand for this kind of schooling among students and learners is due to its adaptability and simple arrangement.
  • The ability to choose whatever place you wish to work, whether you are at home, at work, or even abroad.
  • Because you don’t have to travel about or deal with traffic or bad weather, this business encourages greater productivity.
  • The potential to deliver education to all students wherever they may be. In other words, the educational process has no boundaries.
  • Its expenditures seem to be reasonable. All you need is a peaceful environment and a strong internet connection. Both your own computer and even your smartphone can be used to provide courses.

Challenges in Distance Education

Distance education, like other educational methods, has some challenges despite its advantages. Most of what has been observed and recorded about distance education were:

  • High levels of rivalry in the industry. As many people do this as a side job to teach in their specialty in addition to being regular teachers. For instance, designers, search engine experts, translators, and content writers.
  • The challenge of getting individuals to sign up for your lessons. This requires having a lot of soft talents, like communication and bargaining abilities.
  • While there are fewer duties associated with traditional teaching, distance teaching requires more responsibilities. You will be in charge of planning, carrying out, and monitoring this type of activity.
  • Technical proficiency is necessary for distance education because you will be interacting with many educational programs. You will also need to work with other software to set up and prepare electronic files and lectures.
  • In order to succeed in distance teaching, you need to do more than just teach, that being learning self-promotion. Therefore, it’s crucial to learn how to promote yourself.

Technologies used in Distance Education

Teachers need as many teaching methods as they need. Whether these technologies are instruments for digitally arranging lessons or for communicating with students. You can use the following technologies in your distance education process: 

  • Slideshare. In order to help students understand the subject matter, this application organizes courses into slideshows and presentations.
  • Canva App. Using the application’s pre-made templates, you can build a wide variety of designs. You can create marketing materials for yourself using this application as well
  • Distance Education Platforms. Teachers can deliver their lessons via a variety of platforms. Start with Zoom, which offers a real-time video call. Then, you can utilize stronger platforms like Tutor and Chegg for online tutoring.
  • Lecture Capturing Techniques. For students, it serves as a valuable reference and increases teachers’ efficiency.
  • Efficient Payment Methods. You must have a trustworthy payment method in place that you can use with students.

Syrian Distance Education in Practice

Since it is only used by a few educational platforms and organizations that have shown the value and significance of this type of education, the use of remote education in Syria is still regarded as a timid application. The Syrian Virtual University (SVU), the only university in Syria that fully integrates e-learning into its educational process, is one of these organizations. It is one of the top universities in this sector in Syria together with the Higher Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology (HIAST). [2]

But everyone is aware that numerous experts offer training programs in the areas where they specialize. Many authors, programmers, and designers generate extra revenue for themselves by selling their knowledge as educational resources.

The Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative and Distance Education

Uplifting Syrian Women is an educational initiative that serves as a concrete illustration of the use of distance teaching in Syria because it provides a variety of online educational courses, workshops, conversations, and training. aiming to give all of its citizens, especially women, access to high-quality education in order to create sustainable peace in Syria.

If it is developed properly, distance education can be a lucrative industry in Syria or anyplace else on the globe. Starting out can be challenging, as you have to promote yourself. But it has established itself in the remote work industry. In the end, distance education as a method and way of learning is a necessity brought on by circumstances and progress.

Supervision: Shaza Ali- Education and discussion Departments Manager.
For contact and inquiries: shaza.ali@upliftingsyrianwomen.org

Also read:

References: 

[1] AAU

[2] SCS

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The First and Second Goals of Sustainable Development Goals.

End Poverty in all its Forms and End Hunger – Sustainable development goals in Syria

Sustainable Development /

End Poverty in all its Forms and End Hunger -Sustainable development goals in Syria

The first sustainable development goal aims at ending poverty in all its forms and erasing hunger, given that the majority of the world’s population suffers from these serious issues. So do we understand the significance of the disaster that is taking the lives of more than half the world’s population, one that is unable to afford its essential needs because of poverty? But do we realize the deterioration of the problems resulting from poverty such as hunger, and its effect on humanity’s development?

“Poverty and Hunger are Increasing. They reverse decades of progress and raise already high levels of inequality within and between countries”
– Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres [1]

The inflation of poverty and hunger problems is reflected directly on developing countries, in particular, and the international community in general. It is also considered a reason for disturbing the  Sustainable Development process and community protection programs. Therefore, local and international efforts hurry to develop their plans to end poverty, erase hunger, and eliminate its effects. 

End Poverty 

This goal aims to end poverty in all its forms everywhere. As poverty is not only represented by the lack of material income and simple livelihood resources but also appears in hunger and malnutrition. In addition to the denial of educational opportunities and access to basic services. The objectives of Ending Poverty Goal are centered on the following:

  • First, eradicate extreme poverty for people wherever they are. In addition to reducing the percentage of people who suffer from poverty in all its dimensions according to national definitions by at least half.  Whether they are men, women, or children of all ages. In addition to ensuring that they enjoy the same basic rights and services as all people.
  • Second, develop social protection systems and measures and achieve broad health coverage for the poor and vulnerable.
  • Third, building the resilience of the poor and vulnerable groups, and reducing their vulnerability to natural disasters.
  • Fourth, accelerate investment in measures that eradicate poverty. [2]

“Conflict and civil strife will not last long if the main motivator, which is poverty, is eliminated.”  
– President of the United Nations General Assembly, Tijjani Muhammad-Bande. [1]

Complete Erasure of Hunger

It is the second goal of the Sustainable Development Goals. The manifestations of the problem of hunger and its negative effects vary; Such as malnutrition and low levels of physical and psychological health. This is what prompted us to think about the mechanisms of food development, sharing, and consumption.

The goal of zero hunger includes:

  • First, ending hunger and ensuring everyone has access to enough, safe, and nutritious food.
  • Second, double the agricultural productivity and income of small food producers.
  • Third, Ensure sustainable food production systems. In addition to implementing solid agricultural practices that increase productivity, and enhance resilience to climate change. 
  • Fourth, increase investment in rural infrastructure, agricultural research, and agricultural extension services through enhanced international cooperation. Investment is increased through technology development and animal and plant gene banks.
  • Fifth, preventing trade restrictions and correcting distortions in world agricultural markets. [3]

What is the importance of ending poverty?

More than 700 million people still live in extreme poverty. They also struggle to meet the most basic needs, including but not limited to health, education, and access to water and sanitation. [4]

In addition, poverty extends to include broad dimensions such as unemployment, homelessness, and social exclusion, which leads to weak societal cohesion. Poverty results in physical and psychological health impairment. Also, it stands in the way of achieving justice and providing basic rights for all, causing a current of political tensions and social conflicts due to the lack of participation in decision-making.  Ending poverty will make living in safe countries easier, and help achieve the rest of the Sustainable Development Goals.

What is the importance of eradicating hunger?

Recently, the rate of hungry people has increased to one in nine, according to a World Health Organization report. [5]

The wars and conflicts that the region witnessed during the past period played a role in exacerbating this problem. This is due to the acceleration of displacement movements in search of safety, which led to a wave of scarcity of resources and the difficulty of securing a living.   Agricultural production damage, resulting from climate change, also contributes to the lack of food availability.  This coincided with the rise in food prices and the poor ability of the underprivileged to obtain them well. With regard to the health aspect, the development of policies and procedures for erasing hunger is an effective step. It helps to eliminate the manifestations of malnutrition, obesity, and diseases associated with malnutrition.

How are the above-mentioned objectives achieved?

Organizations and institutions are working on activating strategies to end poverty and eradicate hunger. This is done through its plans, events, and activities that include people with needs and seek to meet them.

Government systems in Syria are currently helping to secure an environment that generates productive employment and creates job opportunities for the poor and the marginalized. It also seeks to develop financial strategies and policies that stimulate growth, in favor of the poor, and reduce the problems arising from poverty.

The youth’s active role in decision-making has an important influence in developing these policies, it encourages creating innovative solutions and the influential youth energies in society. In addition to the role of science and technology in education, training, and experiments in creating job opportunities and enhancing capabilities to address the crises of the agricultural and productive reality. Thus, many of the negatives can be avoided by focusing on ending poverty and erasing hunger as a global priority.

ٍThe social responsibility of every individual in society has the greatest role in achieving the slogan: “So that no one is left behind.” Represented by Syria in its plans for Sustainable Development at the United Nations summit in 2020.

Also read:

 

References: 

[1] UN

[2] UN- Hunger

[3] UN- Poverty

[4] UN- Sustainable Development 

[5] WHO

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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Psychological Health /
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or what is known as ADHD is a common mental health disorder. People with this disorder are often considered to be academically late or irresponsible, but in fact, they are creative and distinguished in their own way.

Have you ever dealt with a child who moves a lot and is constantly distracted?  Has it ever occurred to you that this might be due to a diagnosed disorder?  What is this disorder and how do we treat it?

What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

ADHD is a very common chronic condition that is usually diagnosed during childhood. There are many causes for this disorder, but in most cases, there’s a genetic predisposition for the disorder. However, the severity of it varies depending on environmental factors. For example, being in a tense environment increases the severity of the situation, even though it can appear in different degrees and forms, as the situation differs from one person to another.

As its name implies, people with this disorder suffer from two conditions:

  • The first is attention deficit, which means getting distracted easily and having difficulty concentrating.
  • The second is hyperactivity and impulsivity. Hyperactivity and impulsivity often improve as a person matures, but attention problems can continue into adulthood. [1]
  • In some cases, it lasts forever, as there are many adults who suffer from this disorder. The reason for this might be that they were not diagnosed during childhood. [3]

Although people with this disorder may have some problems at school or work, in their relationships, and in commitments in general, the most important thing we need to know about this disorder is that people who suffer from it are not “stupid” nor do they suffer from a low intellectual level.

What are the causes of ADHD?

There is still no clear cause for having this disorder and research efforts are still ongoing. However, as we mentioned earlier, it is related to genetic predisposition and environmental factors or to problems in the central nervous system during development.

Risk factors that are likely to cause ADHD to include:

  • Having a blood relative, such as a parent or sibling, who suffers from it or any other mental health disorder.
  • Exposure to environmental toxins, such as the lead found in paint.
  • Maternal drug or alcohol abuse during pregnancy.
  • Premature birth. [2]
  • Brain injury. [3]

Exposure to any environmental toxins should be avoided, to prevent this disorder, and a mother should avoid anything that could hinder the growth of the fetus, such as smoking and drinking alcohol. [2]
There are some common beliefs about the cause of this disorder, such as excessive sugar intake or spending a lot of time in front of the TV, and other misconceptions that science has not found any proof of to date. [3]

What are the symptoms of ADHD?

There is no specific examination that can confirm the diagnosis of a child or an adult with ADHD, so the diagnostic process consists of several steps, including medical examinations. The diagnosis is mainly based on a checklist of the most important symptoms.

First: Attention Deficit. Attention deficit or distractibility and difficulty concentrating in children or adults can be noted by the following symptoms:

  • They often fail to pay close attention to details, and make careless mistakes in school or at work, or in other activities.
  • They usually have trouble paying attention while performing any task or even playing.
  • They don’t seem to listen when spoken to directly most of the time.
  • They often don’t follow instructions and fail to finish their schoolwork, housework, or his duties at work (eg: lose focus and track down minor, less important things).
  • They often have trouble organizing tasks and activities.
  • They avoid, dislike, or are reluctant to do tasks that require mental effort for a long period of time (eg, schoolwork or homework).
  • They frequently lose the items necessary for tasks and activities (such as school materials, pencils, books, tools, wallets, keys, papers, glasses, and cell phones).
  • They forget many details even in daily activities and are often easily distracted.

Second: Hyperactivity and Impulsiveness. Hyperactivity and impulsiveness in a child or adult can be noted by the following symptoms:

  • Frequent touching or tapping on hands or feet, or excessive movement while sitting.
  • Standing up, especially in situations where sitting is expected.
  • Running or climbing in situations where it is not appropriate.
  • Inability to play or participate in recreational activities quietly most of the time.
  • They often behave “while moving” as if they are “driven by an engine”.
  • They often talk excessively and start answering even before completing the question.
  • They usually have trouble waiting for their turn. Interrupts or intrudes on others (eg: interferes with conversations or games). [4]

As the main symptoms of ADHD indicate, we can see that the person suffering from this disorder is a conscious, intelligent, and “normal” person. This is not to minimize their suffering or what they go through, because it is difficult and exhausting, but to spread the idea of ​​acceptance and respect for others.

What are some treatment options for ADHD?

Although there is no cure for ADHD, there are many beneficial treatment options. The goal of treatment is to help children improve their social relationships, and performance in school, and keep disruptive or harmful behaviors to a minimum. Medications can be very helpful and are often necessary.

Other (non-medicational) treatments, which are used alone or together, include:

  • Behavioral Therapy: This refers to the methods that attempt to improve behavior, usually through rewarding and encouraging desirable behaviors while discouraging undesirable ones, and indicating their consequences.
  • Cognitive Therapy: Cognitive therapy is a psychotherapy designed to change the way of thinking in order to build self-esteem, limit negative thoughts, and improve problem-solving skills.
  • Social Skills Training: Developing social skills in order to improve friendships.
  • Parental Education and Support: Coaching classes, support groups, and counselors can help educate and support parents with children who have ADHD, including teaching them strategies to cope with behaviors associated with ADHD.

Because many children with ADHD also have poor grades and at-school behavior problems, schools may need to provide instructional modifications and interventions (such as an individualized education plan) in order to create the best learning environment possible for the child.  [1]

The treatment journey may be tiring and tedious for the parents and the child, but it is necessary in order to ensure that this disorder does not negatively affect the lives of those who suffer from it.

We, as an initiative, are always seeking to raise awareness of mental health problems in order to spread a culture of acceptance and respect for people with these disorders or conditions.  This is what we are doing today, because even though ADHD is a neurological condition that affects the focus and activity of its owner, it has, in fact, many advantages, as most of those who suffer from this disorder have a distinctive sense of creativity, rare skills, and multiple talents, in addition to having constant activity and energy.

Also read:

References:

[1] Health Harvard

[2] Mayo Clinic

[3] CDC

[4] CDC

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International Day of Epidemic Preparedness

International Day of Epidemic Preparedness

International Celebration /
International Day of Epidemic Preparedness

International Day of Epidemic Preparedness

International Day of Epidemic Preparedness serves as a reminder to be really prepared for what’s to come. This day has become important after the last pandemic the world faced, the COVID-19 pandemic, which changed the world’s features, and its impact extended to other aspects of life not related to health (such as the economic and social aspects).

“The COVID-19 pandemic will not be the last pandemic humanity will face, and infectious diseases remain a clear and present danger to every country. As we respond to this health crisis, we need to prepare for the next one. This means scaling-up investments in better monitoring, early detection, and rapid response plans in every country.”
– António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General, in 2021. [2]

What terms should we be aware of on the International Day of Epidemic Preparedness? 

Epidemiology: is the study of the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events in specified populations, and the application of this study to the control of health problems. [3] 

Pandemics: are when an epidemic occurs worldwide, crossing international borders and affecting many people. [1]

Infectious Diseases: are disorders caused by organisms – such as bacteria, viruses, fungi or parasites. Many organisms live in and on our bodies. They’re normally harmless or even helpful. But under certain conditions, some organisms may cause disease. [4]

How do epidemics spread? 

In this century alone, the world has seen deadly regional outbreaks of ebola, Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS), and coronavirus, among many others. And virtually every person on our planet has been affected by the direct or secondary impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.[1]

Pathogenic microorganisms multiply very quickly, and they also feature that their genetic material is not adequately protected. This makes them susceptible to mutations or changes, and these changes are the cause of the problem.

Initially, an imbalance occurs in the system of epidemic-causing organisms, such as viruses, germs, or parasites, which calls for a different response from our bodies or from the bodies of other organisms when exposed to them. Animals or plants — mostly animals — cause the transmission of these diseases to humans. In this case, there are two possibilities: 

  • The first possibility is that a living body will respond to this change and form an immune response against it. 
  • The second one is that these antigens will overcome the immune system causing the live organism to develop new symptoms. These symptoms may not correspond to pre-existing treatments and may evolve into an organism’s death and things get out of hand. This disease is therefore transmitted to and affected by human beings.

International Day of Epidemic Preparedness is the reason for raising awareness of pandemic knowledge, transmission, and how to respond. When the pathogen is transmitted from one person to another, there are several cases that help and facilitate this transmission, including:

  • Transmission by infection.
  • Transmission by air.
  • Transmission by insects.
  • Transmission by the fecal-oral route.

After the large spread of social media as a rapid source of information and common events or so-called “trends”, some resorted to publishing misleading, inaccurate, and unclear content about recent epidemics such as the Corona pandemic. However, sites such as Twitter acknowledged that misleading or inaccurate content would be removed and this coincided with both Facebook and Microsoft’s announcements. [5]

Here, the role of the International Day of Epidemic Preparedness is highlighted in making this epidemiological knowledge spread among all. It also shows us the importance of taking news from its correct sources and not relying on social media.

What does International Day of Epidemic Preparedness say about responding to Epidemics?

The first step and the seed of success is planning; we must devote time and effort to planning to address emergency health crises such as epidemics, some of which may turn into a pandemic. Thus, we mitigate the losses we may suffer when the epidemic occurs without planning to overcome them.

The first thing to focus on is societies that show the first response when disasters occur. The need to raise awareness, build culture, and effective and correct response mechanisms when epidemics occur is therefore inevitable. This is followed by an interest in the health sector and an effort to develop, support, and rehabilitate it to respond to epidemics. It is advisable to provide training to a group of individuals we may call ‘specialized emergency responders’ and to also provide them with specialized courses in epidemiology and response. Last but not least, spend generously on scientific research, experiments, and research based on the development of treatments, vaccines, and biotechnologies.

What is our role on International Day of Epidemic Preparedness?

World Epidemic Preparedness Day calls for awareness of the factor that causes the epidemic and its details. In addition to the need to adhere to the guidance and instructions provided to us by the ministries and concerned parties. It is also important to take information from reliable sources, not to spread panic with rumors and misinformation, and to keep away from anything that will lead to the further spread of this epidemic. 

Awareness of finding alternatives to continue our life is one of the goals of International Day of Epidemic Preparedness.; an example of alternatives is remote business and learning during the Covid-19 pandemic. International Day of Epidemic Preparedness is the world’s warning to raise awareness about the epidemic and its grave risks. In the Uplifting Syrian Women Initiative, we hope that the Syrian women’s community will be aware enough to deal effectively with health risks and raise awareness about these topics.

Also read:

References:

[1] IFRC

[2] UN

[3] CDC

[4] Mayo Clinic

[5] BBC

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