The German-Syrian Research Society (DSFG)

At a pivotal turning point for the world, we are not standing idly by; we are shaping the future. The ASSG 2025 Conference is not just a fleeting event -it is your launchpad for real impact. We have designed an exceptional day that transcends the ordinary: an intensive journey combining deep thought with practical application, specifically crafted to expand your networks, enrich your knowledge, and unlock the opportunities you’ve been waiting for. Prepare for a day of strategic dialogues, inspiring sessions, and workshops that transform ideas into tangible achievements.

The Time and Place: The Academic Heart of Europe

To make this event the perfect meeting point for minds from around the world, we have chosen:

  • Time: Saturday, October 11, 2025.
  • Place: The prestigious Johannes Gutenberg University in Mainz, Germany.

The Detailed Agenda: A Three-Part Scientific Journey

The day is divided into three main, integrated events: beginning with a plenary session for all attendees, followed by specialized sessions, and concluding with hands-on workshops.

Opening Session: A Strategic Dialogue to Shape the Future (09:30 – 10:30)

The conference kicks off with an exceptional opening session titled, “The Role of Migrant Communities in Building Host Countries and Connecting Them to Their Homelands.” This is not just a beginning; it is the cornerstone of a day filled with fruitful discussions.

Thought leaders and high-level policymakers Dr. Kai Sicks, Anke Reiffenstuel, and Frank Albrecht come together in a dynamic dialogue. This will be no traditional debate, but a deep dive into exploring the latent power of migrant academics and their dual impact: how they enrich the academic landscape in Germany while simultaneously building bridges of knowledge and development with their countries of origin. The dialogue will raise fundamental questions about the mechanisms through which this impact can be maximized and the pivotal role the German government and institutions play in empowering these creative energies.

Horizon & Invited Talks: A Journey Across the Frontiers of Knowledge (10:45 – 12:15)

Following this collective session, the conference branches into specialized knowledge tracks, where you can choose the session that resonates with your research passion from the following options:

Islamic Studies with Professor Mira Sievers: Authenticity and Renewal at the Heart of the Debate

Seize a rare opportunity to engage in a lively dialogue on how Muslims in Germany balance their authentic identity with an openness to renewal. You will discover the pivotal role Muslim communities have played in establishing academic Islamic studies in German universities and how they continue to shape the field today. Return with practical insights that will inspire your research and support your work.

Conscious Leadership with Dr. Sara Hegy: How a Researcher Leads from a Position of Strength and Balance

With Dr. Sara Hegy, discover how scholarly work transforms from a mere idea into influential leadership. You will learn practical methods to lead your teams with awareness and confidence, turning the challenges of the research environment into opportunities for growth while maintaining your passion and psychological balance.

Medicine and Oncology with Dr. Tareq Juratli  and Dr. Bilal Ashkar Alhamwi: The Latest Advances in Targeted Cancer Therapies

Dr. Tareq Juratli will take you on a knowledge journey from the lab to the patient’s bedside to explore the latest targeted therapies for nervous system tumors. Understand how research translates into tangible therapeutic interventions that save lives, with a spotlight on the future of personalized medical care in oncology.

In the session “The Tumor Microenvironment,” Dr. Bilal Ashkar Alhamwi will offer a deep insight into the interactions between tumors and the immune system, explaining how this advanced understanding can turn scientific challenges into pioneering innovations that have a tangible impact on cancer research and improve patient care worldwide.

Engineering and Artificial Intelligence with Dr. Qusai Ramadan and Eng. Salah-Eddine Mustafa: Technology for a Sustainable Future

Look to the future with Dr. Qusai Ramadan, who reveals how fair and secure AI systems are built from the ground up and how data breaches and algorithmic bias can be prevented before they occur.
Join Engineer Salah-Eddine Mustafa for a practical tour exploring how AI is reshaping work environments, what skills are required to lead in this new era, and why academics and professionals need new tools to stay ahead.

Special Session in Collaboration with DAAD: “Leadership for Syria Alumni” Initiative (13:00 – 14:00)

In partnership with the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the foundation is honored to invite you to an exceptional session titled: “Leadership for Syria Alumni: From Planning to Implementation.” This exclusive session, aimed at alumni of the Leadership for Syria program and experts in reconstruction, is not just a discussion but a platform to launch real action.

Our Goals Together:

  • Launch 5 specialized working groups.
  • Develop actionable plans in the sectors of education, health, infrastructure, economy, and governance.
  • Provide an opportunity for direct networking with a web of international experts and supporting institutions.

Interactive Workshops: From Theory to Application

First Round of Parallel Workshops (14:00 – 15:30)

Media Between Theory and Practice Workshop with Orwa Eyade

Do academic ideas remain confined to books, or can they be transformed into living media that changes reality? This workshop invites you to discover how knowledge can leave the university halls to become impactful and inspiring media projects.

Your Direct Benefit: You will leave the workshop with practical tools to turn theoretical ideas into viable media initiatives and with new creative concepts that open horizons for collaboration and community impact.

Genetics and Kinship in Arab Societies Workshop with Dr. Azza Soliman

Could social customs be a hidden cause of diseases? This workshop delves into the impact of consanguineous marriage on public health and offers practical solutions through genetic counseling and early diagnosis.

Your Direct Benefit: You will leave with a deeper understanding of the relationship between culture and medicine, and with practical tools to contribute to improving community health.

Engineering Innovation for Post-Conflict Reconstruction Workshop with Eng. Maher Daboul, Eng. Abdul wahab Atiq, and Eng. Osama Salti

New beginnings are forged from the rubble. But what kind of reconstruction do we want? This workshop places you at the heart of a discussion on the latest sustainable construction technologies, from digital modeling to smart materials.

Your Direct Benefit: A unique opportunity to learn how your role as an engineer can become a cornerstone in rebuilding a nation and a new future.

Second Round of Parallel Workshops (15:45 – 17:15)

Empowering Arab Academics and Artificial Intelligence Workshop with Dr. Hani Harb and Dr.-Ing. Nidal Zarifeh

In the first part, Dr. Hani Harb and Dr.-Ing. Nidal Zarifeh will guide participants to understand the academic and research system in Germany and how to transform ideas into actionable collaborative projects within programs like Horizon Europe, DFG, and DAAD. They will also cover strategies for funding, partnership building, and developing communication and science diplomacy skills.

Dr.-Ing. Nidal Zarifeh will continue the second part of the workshop by discussing the uses of artificial intelligence and digital twins in universities, and how these tools can support education, scientific research, and enhance the performance of academic institutions.

Your Direct Benefit: You will leave the workshop with a clear collaboration plan, a strong support network, and practical knowledge of the latest AI tools in education and research.

Dialogue Circle: Building a Future for the Syrian Community in Germany (15:45 – 17:15)

With policy advisor Ehab Badwi, join an open and vibrant dialogue titled “The Syrian Community in Germany – Towards Greater Impact and a Stronger Voice.” Now is the time to unite efforts and build a cohesive community capable of supporting Syrians locally and internationally and contributing effectively to reconstruction. This session is your chance to be part of the discussion and the creation of practical solutions.

Don’t Miss Your Chance. Your Place Awaits.

The ASSG 2025 Conference is not just an event; it is your best investment in your professional and research future. It is the point where ambitious visions meet tangible opportunities. Seats are designed for a unique interactive experience, and for this reason, they are limited.

Don’t leave your seat empty in this pioneering scientific movement. Register now, book your place among the elite, and become an active partner in shaping the future.