Liberation Unfolds at Damascus University: A Freedom Moment
Hundreds of students at Damascus University trampled over a statue of Hafez al-Assad, signifying the end of decades of harsh tyranny, in a potent demonstration of their newfound freedom. Students waved the three-star independence flag and chanted slogans as the campus courtyard burst with revolutionary spirit.
Voices of Hope and Freedom
Students expressed their jubilation and sense of liberation:
- Rinad Abdallah, an 18-year-old medical student, spoke of the “extraordinary atmosphere”
- Yasmine Shehab, 29, an English literature student, declared, “We finally feel free!”
The main source of the students’ exhilaration was their freedom to express themselves without fear, which contrasted sharply with the tight supervision of the previous administration.
A Historic Moment of Transition and Freedom
The downfall of Bashar al-Assad, who had been in power since 2000, represents a dramatic shift in the tumultuous history of Syria. More than 13 years after the civil war started in 2011 with pro-democracy demonstrations, the rebels have taken over Damascus.
Return to Normalcy: Freedom in Education
Education Resumes
School students returned to classes, showcasing signs of hope and victory:
- Children waved the three-star flag while wearing uniforms.
- A few pupils made flags on their cheeks.
- Flags that were prohibited during Assad’s reign are being displayed on school walls.
An educational employee noted that approximately 30% of schoolchildren returned, with expectations of gradual increase.
Political Promises of Inclusivity and Freedom
Mohammad al-Bashir, head of the transitional government, pledged to “guarantee the rights of all people and all sects in Syria.” This statement reflects hopes for a more inclusive and diverse national approach.
Economic and Daily Life: Paths to Freedom
Business and Infrastructure
- Business as usual resumed.
- The street sellers carried on with their business.
- There are still ongoing difficulties, such as:
- Lack of fuel
- prolonged outages of electricity (up to 20 hours in some places)
Celebration in the Streets: Embracing Freedom
The days-long celebrations of Assad’s downfall continued as thousands of students spontaneously gathered in Ummayad Square. People were expressing confidence about Syria’s future, and the atmosphere was electrifying.
Looking Forward: The Promise of Freedom
A poignant metaphor for the possible change in Syrian society is the removal of Assad’s monument from Damascus University. A generation anxious to create a new story of freedom, expression, and hope is embodied by students like Rinad and Yasmine.
The joy of Syria’s young as it embarks on this crucial transitional phase points to the possibility of a resurgence of national cohesion and democratic ambitions. Although there is still a long way to go, the spirit of change is evident throughout Damascus’ streets.