The idea to establish and equip the MARS Institute for Thought and Political Sciences was developed in response to the urgent need to raise political awareness among a broad segment of Syrian society, especially the youth.
The project came to life in 2017 with the launch of its first phase, where the educational process began in the institute in the city of Azaz in northern rural Aleppo. The institute received its first batch of students in the first year, who received the principles, foundations, and knowledge that would qualify them to build their political awareness and contribute to the development of their community.
In the second phase of the project, an instructional plan was developed based on the experiences of the first phase. This phase aims to diversify the project’s activities and encourage young people of both genders to join the institute and explore new and high-quality political specialties.
The students at the institute are taught by a select group of academics specialized in political affairs, and the students are admitted based on specific criteria, including academic background and passing an admission test at the institute. The educational process for each diploma program continues for three months.
Project Objectives:
The project aims to build and empower the capacities of youth in communities by providing them with the necessary political expertise and training, enabling them to become real and effective participants in the decision-making process, enhancing the importance of political awareness in their societies, and preparing them for active involvement in political and social issues.
The diplomas include the following courses:
- International Relations Diploma: It consists of 4 courses (International Organization, Political Geography, Foreign Policy, International Relations Theory).
- Political Practice Diploma: It includes 4 courses (Local Administration, Political Participation and Women, Political Parties and Organizations, Public Policies).
- Democratic Transition Diploma: It includes 4 courses (Democratic Transition, Democratic Theory, Civil Society, Community and Political Participation).
- Political Science Fundamentals Diploma: It includes 4 courses (Contemporary Syrian Political History, Political Development, Introduction to Political Systems and Constitutional Law, Introduction to Political Science).
Project location:
Syria – Northern Aleppo Countryside – Azaz City.
