Kobani University rejects merger with Aleppo, Euphrates universities

Kobani University issued a statement on Monday in front of its campus in the city of Kobani. The statement was read by student Gulistan Ali in the presence of a number of professors and students, coinciding with World Kobani Day.

Firm rejection of the merger

In its statement, the university categorically rejected any decision to affiliate Kobani University, as an academic institution, with the University of Aleppo, or to change its name or administrative and academic structure. It stressed that any such step must be taken with the input and approval of students.

Academic and cultural identity

The statement emphasized that Kobani University is not merely an educational institution whose name can be changed by an administrative decision or which can be affiliated with another university. Rather, it is an academic institution with scientific, cultural and linguistic significance, and serves as a safeguard for the right of local residents to education and to preserving their identity.

It clarified that insisting on preserving Kobani University does not amount to rejecting academic cooperation or diminishing the status of the University of Aleppo. Rather, it is about protecting the right to maintain an independent educational institution with its own identity and distinct characteristics.

Kobani University's demands

The university called for the following:

- Preserving the independence of academic decision-making and ensuring that decisions are made in accordance with scientific and institutional standards that safeguard the quality of education and students' interests.

- Respecting the linguistic and cultural specificities of the university and its students, which are an essential part of its identity.

- Refraining from making any decisions of critical importance to the university's future without formal consultation and the involvement of students, professors and administrative staff in discussing and preparing such decisions.

- Making dialogue, understanding and consensus the basis for any future academic development or cooperation, while preserving the university's distinct identity and specific character.

Education based on academic, not political, considerations

The university concluded its statement by emphasizing that its position was not directed against the University of Aleppo or any other educational institution, and that it did not reject academic cooperation. Rather, it was asserting its right to retain its own identity and distinct characteristics, and would continue to reject any fundamental changes imposed on it against its will.

It stressed that the future of educational institutions must be shaped by scientific and academic considerations, not political changes. It added that the university's autonomy, independence in decision-making and respect for its identity are the key foundations of any successful educational process, emphasizing that Kobani and Rojava universities are not merely names, but represent academic identities, distinct cultural characteristics and an educational right that deserves respect and protection.

ANHA