Culture Bus Project: Identity and Belonging Activity for Children in Damascus

The Arab Cultural Center, located in the Mzeze district of Syria's capital Damascus, hosted an interactive event that brought together education and entertainment for children. Named the 'Culture Bus' and targeting children aged 8 to 14, this organization was organized to strengthen moral values and instill cultural identity. Held with the participation of institutions interested in education and empowerment, the event offered participants both instructive and entertaining moments.

During the event, children attended sessions where educational stories were read, as well as interactive games and painting workshops. These activities aimed to introduce the children to the geography of Biladü'ş-Şam (the Land of Damascus) while deepening their sense of belonging and unity. Additionally, the event focused on reinforcing fundamental values such as trust, honesty, and tolerance among children by utilizing educational techniques based on participant approach methods.

Hanine Es-Saour, Program and Education Coordinator from the Foundation for Cooperation for Sustainable Development, explained the project's aim as raising awareness regarding children's educational and moral values. Saour stated that in addition to storytelling and innovative games, games such as memory and puzzles were based on historical monuments in Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, and Jordan. Furthermore, a special coloring book was distributed during the event, allowing children to learn about the history of these historical artifacts while having fun.

Teacher Hamza Mahmut Meşlut from the Institution for Education and Empowerment highlighted the importance of institutions working in collaboration, stating that the Taj Foundation and the El-Ruwwad Cultural Foundation together offered an interactive education model through stories and practical situations. Meşlut emphasized that the sharing of experiences by educators from both institutions contributed to providing a more efficient and beneficial educational experience for the children.

This meaningful event was carried out within the scope of activities conducted by the Syrian Ministry of Culture and its affiliated directorates to support cultural and educational initiatives. The Ministry continues to support programs that will shape children's consciousness, reinforce their cultural identities, and strengthen their societal values. The event went down in history as an important step taken to transfer Syria's cultural heritage to future generations and raise children with a sense of identity.