In our journey of empowering minds and building knowledge bridges between Syria and Germany, the year 2025 marked a defining milestone for the German-Syrian Research Society (DSFG). It was a year when the spirit of volunteerism and generosity shone brightly, and challenges turned into opportunities through the collective efforts of hundreds of volunteers and members.
We are proud to present this annual report documenting the year’s most remarkable achievements and initiatives — from supporting Syrian students’ access to higher education, to organizing workshops and training programs, and launching humanitarian, environmental, and scientific projects. Our teams worked together to strengthen academic and social ties between Syria and Germany, and to amplify the presence and contributions of Syrians across diverse academic and professional fields — shaping the story of 2025.
Academic Empowerment Scholarships Team (AES)
Believing that education is the key to the future, and in response to the aspirations of hundreds of Syrian students, the Academic Empowerment Team carefully reviewed over 550 scholarship applications. The process was more than just selection — it was a journey to uncover potential. In 2025, 21 students were empowered to pursue their academic dreams in Germany.
Each scholarship granted through the Nahed and Hilde Domin programs represented not just financial support, but an investment in future leaders — and a message of hope for the entire academic community.
Content Creation Team
The Content Creation Team ensures the production of high-quality educational, promotional, and informational materials across DSFG’s platforms. Throughout the year, the team played a central role in documenting achievements, supporting campaigns, and preparing educational materials that enhanced engagement and knowledge sharing within the organization.
Design Team
Comprising five dedicated volunteers, the Design Team brings DSFG’s visual identity to life. Every line and color they craft reflects values of diversity and belonging, turning complex ideas into visuals everyone can understand.
In 2025, the team provided visual support for over 170 volunteers, helping elevate the quality and consistency of DSFG’s campaigns and materials.
Engineers for Rebuilding Syria (ERS)
The ERS team launched several strategic initiatives, including civil engineering training sessions, the establishment of a committee to update engineering standards, and the creation of academic networks. The team continues to build partnerships to support Syria’s reconstruction based on local expertise.
Environmental Team (CESAC)
CESAC emerged as a leader in environmental cooperation between Syria and Germany. In 2025, it launched major initiatives such as the Environmental Awareness Index, an Air Pollution Research Unit, and environmental education programs, alongside high-level scientific events.
These initiatives have become spaces for academics and activists to exchange ideas, foster dialogue, and find sustainable solutions for Syria’s environmental challenges.
External Relations Team
This team serves as the bridge between DSFG and German universities, institutions, and the private sector. In 2025, it helped expand access to scholarships and established partnerships to fund exams and training courses for Syrian youth.
Human Resources Team
The HR Team manages more than 130 volunteers and around 200 members, overseeing onboarding processes, ensuring transparency in contracts, and enhancing internal communication.
In 2025, it continued its appreciation programs — issuing certificates and letters of recognition — and worked to cultivate a professional and supportive work environment.
IT Team
As DSFG’s digital backbone, the IT Team redesigned key sections of the organization’s main website, developed a dedicated subpage for symposiums, and optimized digital systems to improve accessibility and security. These updates allowed all teams to collaborate more smoothly and efficiently.
Media Team
Every camera lens captures not just a scene — but an untold story.
In 2025, the Media Team strengthened DSFG’s audiovisual identity, covered events, produced interactive videos, and participated in campaigns that reached thousands of viewers — amplifying DSFG’s impact and visibility.
Academic Mentorship Program
This program provides one-on-one guidance to Syrian students and professionals. In 2025, the mentorship network expanded, helping dozens navigate their academic and career paths in Germany.
News and Newsletter Team
Through regular updates, this team maintains transparent communication by sharing news and reports that highlight the work of all DSFG teams.
This year, newsletters received a new visual identity, expanded bilingual (Arabic-English) reach, and featured inspiring stories from across the organization.
Political Education Team
This team runs a year-long project aimed at empowering Syrian youth and women politically and civically. Through workshops and educational sessions, it promotes democratic values and fosters active community participation.
Syrian Academics Compass (SAC)
This initiative connects Syrian graduates with academic and professional opportunities abroad. In 2025, it gathered valuable experiences and launched new initiatives to bridge the gap between local education and global opportunities.
Scientific Exchange Team
Dedicated to knowledge transfer, this team organizes academic events, supports research, and strengthens collaboration between Syrian and German academics.
In 2025, it successfully increased member participation in conferences and joint research programs.
Syrian Women Academics Network (SWAN)
SWAN brings together Syrian women academics to promote empowerment, advocacy, and gender equality. In 2025, the network held regular meetings, launched the “Oudette” Storytelling Series, and continued its mission to advance women’s representation in science and academia.
Workshops Program
The Workshops Program continues to serve as a platform for academic and professional growth. Since its launch, more than 30 workshops have been delivered, with plans to expand further in 2025.
Covering topics from research methods to technical skills, each workshop opens a new window of learning for participants.
One highlight was the DataCamp Scholarship Initiative, which granted 100 students full access to online courses in data science and artificial intelligence — completely free of charge.
Conclusion
The achievements of 2025 are not isolated successes, but part of a larger mosaic painted by the collective spirit of DSFG’s teams.
Every milestone reflects the effort and dedication of each member and volunteer who left their mark.
We firmly believe that these success stories are just the beginning of a continuing journey toward greater horizons.
With science and teamwork as our compass, we move forward to build a brighter future.
Our gratitude goes to everyone who contributed to this year’s impact — together, we look forward to writing new chapters of hope and achievement in 2026.