Polish and Syrian Universities Partner on Research

A Syrian university building its programs in Kobanê and one of Poland's most established academic institutions are joining forces to advance education across borders.

Kobanê University and Maria Curie-Skłodowska University formalized their partnership in June 2026 with an academic cooperation agreement. The deal creates pathways for joint scientific research, student and faculty exchanges, and collaborative projects between the two schools.

Co-President Şervan Muslim and Dr. Eşref Mahmud from Kobanê University's Office of International Relations represented the Syrian institution at the signing ceremony. The Polish side brought several senior leaders, including Vice Rector Prof. Dr. Zbigniew Pastuszak and Dr. Olga Plzeżinska-Mukewska, Director of the International Cooperation Center.

The partnership marks a significant step for Kobanê University as it works to expand its international academic presence. For students and faculty in Syria, the agreement opens doors to research opportunities, academic exchanges, and connections with a major European institution.

Maria Curie-Skłodowska University brings substantial resources to the collaboration. As one of Poland's largest universities, it educates approximately 70,000 students and has extensive experience in international academic partnerships.

The Ripple Effect

This cooperation does more than connect two campuses. It creates bridges between communities recovering from conflict and established academic networks in Europe.

Students from Kobanê gain access to international research standards, teaching methods, and academic networks that can elevate their education. Polish students and researchers benefit from new perspectives and the chance to contribute to educational development in a region rebuilding its institutions.

The exchange of ideas and expertise strengthens both universities while advancing scientific knowledge that crosses borders. Joint research projects can tackle challenges relevant to both regions, from environmental issues to social development.

Academic partnerships like this one prove that education builds connections even across vast distances and different circumstances. When universities share resources and knowledge, students everywhere gain opportunities they might never have accessed alone.

This cooperation signals growing recognition that Syrian institutions have valuable contributions to make to international academic communities.