Since the resumption of humanitarian operations in Syria, HAND swiftly established offices in Damascus and Aleppo, launching a comprehensive vision to help build a more just and stable future. We firmly believe that human dignity, the right to education, and access to a decent life form the cornerstone of any genuine reconstruction effort.
In this context, HAND’s Executive Director, Mr. Saadettin Muvakit, stated:
"In recent years, HAND – Human Aid and Development has focused on emergency response to alleviate suffering amid the major humanitarian challenges caused by successive crises in Syria and refugee-hosting countries."
Ramadan 2025: Strengthening Food Security in Syria
As part of our 2025 Ramadan campaign, we prioritized food security through collaboration with the governorates of Damascus, Aleppo, Homs, and Rural Damascus. The campaign included the distribution of 7,500 light iftar meals at the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, in coordination with the Ministry of Awqaf, as well as organizing community iftars that served over 9,500 hot meals. On Laylat al-Qadr, we provided 5,200 suhoor meals to support the most vulnerable families and foster solidarity during the holy month.
The Umayyad Mosque: Heritage and Heart of the Community
As part of our community maintenance projects, HAND carried out urgent restoration work at the Umayyad Mosque in partnership with the Ministry of Awqaf and the Damascus Awqaf Directorate. The initiative involved enhancing the outer courtyard and upgrading safety measures, while fully preserving the mosque’s historical identity. This reflects our commitment to preserving vital cultural and community landmarks that promote stability and collective heritage.
Education in Syria: Creating a Safe and Stimulating Environment
"Our efforts are not limited to food aid, non-food relief, and shelter. We have also worked to ensure the continuity of education in the most difficult circumstances for thousands of Syrian students. Even in crises where schools were closed, we provided flexible and safe educational alternatives." – Mr. Saadettin Muvakit
In line with this vision, HAND launched several educational initiatives in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, including:
Coordinating meetings with Minister of Education Mr. Nadeer Al-Qadri and the Director of Planning and International Cooperation, Mr. Youssef Annan.
Implementing emergency maintenance in public schools, such as repairing doors and windows, rehabilitating sanitation facilities, and enhancing safety standards on school premises.
Supplying 250 schools in Damascus with essential stationery to ensure uninterrupted learning in a secure and nurturing environment for both students and teachers.
Innovation and Youth Empowerment: Our Participation in Syria’s Hackathon
As part of our commitment to nurturing innovation and empowering youth, HAND participated in Syria’s Hackathon, a national initiative aimed at developing practical solutions to socio-economic challenges. Our participation reflects our belief that digital creativity and entrepreneurship are essential drivers of long-term stability and the empowerment of future generations.
Strengthening Official Relations
Dr. Abdulqader Al-Sankari, Chairman of HAND’s Board of Trustees, participated in a formal meeting in the UAE that brought together Syrian business leaders with President Ahmed Al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani. The discussion focused on exploring opportunities for humanitarian and economic collaboration, highlighting the vital role Syrian expatriates play in the country’s recovery and reconstruction.
Toward Strategic Partnerships to Rebuild Syria’s Future
HAND’s mission extends well beyond emergency relief. We are driven by a long-term vision to build a resilient, united Syrian society. Our goal is to expand partnerships with international organizations, academic institutions, and regional and global donors to implement sustainable development projects across education, food security, and digital transformation.
Our Vision
"We are transitioning into a new phase: recovery and development. Our focus is on quality education, youth empowerment, improving livelihoods and shelter, and strengthening community stability. Our vision is to build a cohesive society capable of rising from within, backed by strategic partnerships and sustainable projects that create impact and open doors to hope." – Mr. Saadettin Muvakit
At HAND, we believe every child deserves a chance, every teacher deserves a dignified learning environment, and every family deserves a voice—one that is heard and met with services delivered with dignity.
We remain unwavering in our commitment to humanity, advancing with determination toward a future shaped by resilience and solidarity.
