The Syria Trust for Development focuses its work on areas where it is best suited to be the lead development agency in Syria.  We avoid projects better carried out by government or the private sector.  Our work concentrates on developing human potential rather than providing direct aid or infrastructure. We select our project work to fit within three areas of focus: Learning; Rural Development; and Culture and Heritage.

	Learning is directed largely at Syria’s young people, and aims to prepare them mentally to thrive in a fast-changing, global, information-rich future.  Our activities are self-directed and non-formal, and encourage creativity, independent and critical thinking, collaboration, initiative, business aptitude and social responsibility.  Learning provides young people with life skills, and the tools to adapt to new circumstances.  Learning represents an investment in Syria’s greatest natural resource, its young minds.
	Rural Development reflects a national commitment to create sustainable communities outside Syria’s crowded urban areas.  Over 60% of the population lives in the countryside, which plays a large part in shaping the Syrian identity.  Micro-finance, business incubation, mobile resources, scholarships, training and advice can help individuals and communities find economic opportunity beyond the basics of agriculture, while retaining a strong sense of local ownership and engagement.
	Culture & Heritage interventions focus on empowering creative individuals in various cultural fields through facilitating opportunities for exposure, self and professional development. Our programmes focus also on expanding people's interaction and involvement in cultural activities. This is done through continuously engaging with Syria's rich cultural heritage to inspire new forms of cultural expression and engender new opportunities of interaction.