Despite the lockdown that started in late march of 2020 and its importance in the coronavirus spread containment, the impact on the youth was grave. In addition to the tragedies caused by this pandemic such as losing lives and livelihoods, the covid-19 deprived a generation from its chance to contribute to the future and paused their dreams and ambitions as the whole world is living in uncertainty. 

But in times of crisis, the study zone team rise up to meet the new challenge of finding innovative ways of engaging with the students that used to spend long hours in the study zone, studying and developing their skills. With determination to keep the youth motivated and goal oriented, the team took the initiative to resort to virtual competitions and immersed in action.

Using social media platforms couldn’t be more convenient to gather the youth and invite them to participate in the new online activities. The ideas were received with excitement which motivated the team to create more innovative initiatives. 

The Homs branch have already launched 3 competitions on their Facebook page in three domains; painting, singing and writing short stories. The numbers of the participants in every challenge was around 15 students. 

In the first experience of this kind, the competition was intense to win the first prize, but most importantly the response and enthusiasm of the youth to maintain their activities despite the imposed quarantine. 

Meanwhile in Damascus, more than 40 students became an active part of the virtual book club to share free books and hold discussion sessions to talk about the different perspectives and views within the group of readers. Also, an online debate was held discussing different topics hoping that after all this is over, the experience continues regularly with full participants.

The longer the social distancing continues, the more we see creative ideas put into action, the Study Zone team in both cities is already planning new challenges. 

If you are curious about what’s next! Then here’s sneak peek for you... they might involve a photography challenge, and an architectural designing challenge… we just have to wait and see the creativity of the participants and the resourcefulness of our outstanding youths.