In this episode of Syria: Alternative Dialogues, we host researcher Maya Alkateb-Chami in a rich conversation with Rabie Nasser from the Syrian Center for Policy Research. The episode explores the relationship between the language of instruction and the quality of education, the importance of learning in one’s mother tongue, and the role of language in building a shared cultural and cognitive identity in Syria.

The discussion draws on scientific evidence from international experiences, examines the challenges Arabic faces as a language of instruction across the Arab world, and addresses Syria’s linguistic diversity as a path to social justice and communal reconciliation. The episode also highlights the experience of Syrians in the diaspora and the role of language in preserving cultural, social, and national ties.

Key Discussion Points:
The link between mother tongue education and academic achievement
Arabic between formal education and everyday use
Linguistic diversity in Syria: Kurdish, Syriac, Armenian, and more
Language as a tool for social reconciliation and citizenship
Language and education challenges in exile and return

About the Guest:
Maya Alkateb-Chami is a PhD candidate in education at Harvard University, with an additional specialization in philosophy. Her research focuses on literacy as a political and social issue, with particular attention to multilingualism, cultural diversity, and epistemic justice. Her applied work explores how language-of-instruction policies and practices affect learning outcomes, through comparative and bilingual education studies.

She has previously held leadership roles at Columbia University, Jusoor, and the United World Colleges. Maya holds a master’s degree in Language and Literacy from Harvard, a master’s in Art Education from Indiana University Bloomington, and a BA in Political Science from Damascus University. Her research has been published in Harvard Educational Review and the International Journal of Educational Development.

Hosted by: Rabie Nasser, researcher and co-founder of the Syrian Center for Policy Research

Produced and coordinated by: Reem Takriti

Previous and Next Episodes:

Keep listening to our podcasts, and discover more from “Syria; Alternative Dialogues” by following us on Spotify.