The EDU-SYRIA Scholarship Programme is a series of EU-funded initiatives launched in response to the Syrian crisis and managed by the German Jordanian University (GJU). These initiatives have been funded by the EU Regional Trust Fund (EUTF) in Response to the Syrian Crisis (Madad Fund) and the European Neighbourhood Instrument (ENI), with a total allocation of €37.6 million. EDU-SYRIA’s primary objective is to enhance the livelihoods of Syrian refugees and vulnerable Jordanians by providing access to higher and vocational education, as well as improving employability.

Since its inception, EDU-SYRIA has awarded 3,328 scholarships—both degree and non-degree—and has graduated 2,486 students across various Bachelor’s, Master’s, Vocational Training, Teacher Training, and employability-focused programs. Of these graduates, 43% were male and 57% female.

The programme is implemented by the German Jordanian University in collaboration with a consortium of 10 international and local organizations, as well as public and private academic institutions. Partners include the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the Netherlands Universities Foundation for International Cooperation (NUFFIC), Queen Rania Teacher Academy (QRTA), Jordan University for Science and Technology (JUST), Yarmouk University (YU), Mutah University (MU), Zarqa University (ZU), Princess Sumaya University for Technology (PSUT), Luminus Technical University College (LTUC), and Luminus Jordan Start. EDU-SYRIA also works closely with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to assess the eligibility of Syrian refugees for the scholarship programs. Additionally, partnerships with prominent Jordanian humanitarian organizations, such as the National Aid Fund, Tkiyet Um Ali, Al-Aman Fund, and Zakat Fund, help identify and support economically disadvantaged beneficiaries in Jordan.

Furthermore, EDU-SYRIA places a strong emphasis on tracking the employability outcomes of scholarship graduates. The findings from the latest tracer study demonstrate that the scholarships have had a significant impact on the lives of Syrian refugees and underserved Jordanians, providing crucial opportunities for education and employment. Among Syrian refugees, 16% have secured regular employment, 4% are self-employed, and 11% hold occasional jobs. These opportunities have empowered refugees to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities. For underserved Jordanians, 23% have found regular employment, with many working in the public (25%) and private (21%) sectors. These achievements have fostered financial independence, enabling beneficiaries to move beyond reliance on financial aid, secure stable employment, and start families.

You can visit EDU-SYRIA website by click here.