Since 2002, TEMPUS has played an important role in the higher education in Syria, with most of the higher education institutions participating in the programme. Syrian active participation in TEMPUS commenced in 2002 with various subjects covered. By the end of 2007, there were in total (24) JEPs and (6) SCMs projects implemented and still on going projects.

TEMPUS has had a significant impact on the modernisation of curricula and teaching methods, and on quality assurance and the upgrading of facilities. It has had a moderate impact on staff development through the mobility programme. Several faculties became centres of excellence in their projects. The programme enhanced the Syrian and the European whether in higher education sector, or in other crucial sectors. No doubt that the nature of the programme contributes to the higher education reform and modernization process in Syria.

In 2007, the TEMPUS Programme continued to implement its ongoing activities finishing its third phase (TEMPUS 3). During 2007 5 JEP projects were selected. Their implementation started in September 2007 in most Syrian Universities. TEMPUS Programme will continue in Syria until 2013. The new programme will provide for two main programme components: joint projects and structural measures (including direct support to ministries of higher education in partner countries).

This site provides useful information about TEMPUS Programme in Syria for the period from 2002 until 2007. The information presented in this site covers mainly the main TEMPUS projects implemented in the Syrian higher education sector. This is prefaced with a presentation of the historical cooperation between Syria and EU, and also with the current statues of Syrian higher education sector. This site also provides analytical information for stakeholders interested of the TEMPUS Programme in Syria.