We are supporting Arab Academics with the DSFG Mentoring Project

What is DSFG Mentoring Project?

The German-Syrian Society for Scientific Research (DSFG) established its mentorship programme in April 2021 to support Arab students, researchers and scientists embarking on their academic journey in Germany.

What is the aim of the project?

Recognising the challenges faced by newcomers – such as language barriers, bureaucratic hurdles, integration issues, and cultural differences – the project aims to bridge these gaps by connecting mentees with experienced mentors who have successfully navigated the German academic landscape.

Overall, the DSFG Mentoring Programme plays a crucial role in facilitating the academic and professional integration of Arabic-speaking students and researchers into the German educational system, leveraging the expertise and support of seasoned academics to guide newcomers towards success.

How will DSFG mentoring project work?

Mentees will gain access to register online on the mentoring platform. On this platform, they will have the chance to be matched with a mentor conducting research in their field of study or a related field. Another matching criterion depends on what you want to gain from the mentorship.

DSFG’s mentoring programme emphasises the importance of a structured mentoring process. Mentors and mentees are encouraged to establish clear communication, set expectations, maintain regular contact, and actively participate in the relationship. Confidentiality and privacy are key to building a trusting and effective mentoring relationship. The programme also provides guidelines to ensure that both mentors and mentees understand their roles and responsibilities, fostering a productive and supportive environment.

What kind of support does the DSFG Mentoring project provide?

DSFG mentoring project offers various forms of assistance, including:

– Application support: Guidance during the application process for German universities and scholarship programmes.

– Academic counselling: Helping students adapt to new study environments, discussing potential areas of research, and providing insights into academic expectations.

– Language counselling: Providing tandem language partnerships to practice and improve proficiency in German or English.

– Life Counselling: Helping newcomers acclimatise to the cultural and social aspects of life in Germany.

Data and facts

Between 1 April 2021 and 30 June 2024, 293 mentees applied to the programme, of whom 198 successfully completed the mentoring process. The majority of mentees were seeking help in applying to Master’s programmes in Germany, and approximately 35% of them were women. The fields of study were diverse, with significant representation from the pharmaceutical, medical and engineering disciplines.

The programme currently has 60 volunteer mentors from a variety of backgrounds.

Current Coordination Team

• Lama Atieh (Manager)
• Dr. Yamen AlSalka (Co-Manager)
• Marah Arbash
• Sara Wakkaf
• Alaa Hadid
• Miriam Ashi
• Dr. Ahmad Zammar
• Cendia Salman
• Sawsan Ali