In a move to strengthen the national innovation ecosystem, Syria’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), recently held the first-ever Forum for Entrepreneurial Organizations. The event, held in Damascus, brought together representatives from approximately 30 organizations active in Syria’s entrepreneurship and technology sectors to strategize on fostering growth for the country’s startups.
Key Priorities For Ecosystem Development
Discussions at the forum centered on actionable steps to build a more robust environment for founders. Participants called for a greater focus on transforming university graduation projects and individual ideas into scalable companies. Key recommendations included expanding digital education programs, promoting an entrepreneurial culture within schools and universities, and modernizing laws and regulations to align with technological advancements and improve access to financing opportunities.
Addressing Core Challenges In The Startup Scene
The forum also served as a platform to address the significant challenges facing the Syrian startup community. Leaders in attendance highlighted the current weaknesses in the incubator landscape, a notable lack of available funding, and a scarcity of structured mentorship programs. A consensus emerged on the necessity of building trust and collaboration between the government and civil society, positioning the latter as an essential partner in restructuring and revitalizing the entrepreneurial ecosystem’s role in the national economy.
Government Commits To Fostering Innovation
In his address, Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Abd al-Salam Haikal, affirmed that the Syrian government has placed innovation at the core of its digital transformation priorities. He emphasized the importance of developing a legislative environment that encourages investment and protects innovators’ rights. The Minister also highlighted plans to establish technology incubators within universities to better support students and facilitate their effective entry into the job market.
About The Syrian Ministry of Communications and Technology
The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology is the Syrian government body responsible for regulating and developing the information and communications technology (ICT) sector in the country. Its mandate includes formulating policies, overseeing telecommunications infrastructure, and promoting digital transformation initiatives.
Source: SANA
