Mission
To study, preserve and revitalise the rich cultural and artistic heritage of Kurdistan; to educate young people through an ethical, social and creative understanding of the arts; and to introduce Kurdish art to the global community.
A college of Rojava University · Est. 2024
Culture & Arts College Koleja Çand û Hunerê ya Rojava
The first formal college of the arts in Rojava — studying, preserving and revitalising the cultural and artistic heritage of Kurdistan, and educating the next generation of artists.
- 2024
- Founded
- 129
- Active students
- 4
- Academic programs
- 2
- Years of study
2024First college of the arts in Rojava
About the college
The first college of the arts in Rojava
Culture & Arts College was founded on 15 October 2024 as the first formal college to teach the arts in Rojava. Located in Derek (Dêrik), north-east Syria, it opened with three branches — Music, Theatre and Cinema — and 60 students in its first year.
In its second year the college welcomed 82 students and grew to four programs, adding Fine Arts (Painting and Sculpture). The campus comprises three main blocks and provides students with a furnished dormitory and a kitchen serving residents.
The administration block houses student affairs, the joint-directorship, the dormitory office, archiving, examination affairs, media, coordination and finance — alongside a library for research and reading. All teaching staff are specialists in the arts, with some academics contributing online from different regions and countries.
- ✓Three founding branches, now four academic programs
- ✓A campus of three main blocks with dormitory and kitchen
- ✓A library, and lecturers joining from around the world
Mission & vision
What guides our work
Vision
To be recognised as a leading centre for higher arts education in Rojava — promoting cultural diversity, gender equality and ecological awareness across all artistic fields, and striving for leadership and excellence.
Objectives
In a region affected by conflict and displacement, we strive to provide high-quality education with the resources available, and to develop collaborations with sister universities and international partners through exchanges, joint projects and workshops.
Core values
Academic programs
Four departments, one artistic mission
The college offers four academic programs, each led by its own head of department.
Student body
129 students, one community
Our educational model integrates academic instruction with social activities.
129
Active students across two years
Strategic plan 2025–2030
A roadmap for the years ahead
Four goals guide the college's development through 2030.
Administration
Governance built on cooperation
The college is jointly managed by two co-directors, while each department — Music, Theatre, Cinema and Fine Arts — is led by its own head.
Despite challenging conditions, the college's members work with dedication to ensure students receive accessible and effective education. Lectures are held regularly, and first- and second-year students take part actively in academic and social life.
The College Council brings together the administration, deputies, department representatives and the student union.
Curriculum
What our students study
Select a year and semester to view the courses in each department.
Student services
A campus that supports its students
From housing to healthcare, the college cares for the whole student.
Code of conduct
Our ethical charter
A shared commitment of the college community — administration, faculty, staff and students.
Gallery
Life at the college
Get involved
Join us in sustaining Kurdish-language arts education
We warmly invite friends and artists to contribute to this mission — supporting the expansion of arts education and the cultural vitality of the region. Whether through partnerships, workshops or support, your contribution matters.