First Community Meetup, Damascus
Our first meetup in person: data people from every background in one room, mapping the Syrian data community.
The first real test of Syria Data Science was not online. It was in the room.
Our first open meetup in Damascus brought together data analysts, developers, economists, engineers, researchers and students. For many, it was the first time they discussed their work openly with peers who spoke the same technical language.
We also listened and measured. What we learned:
Strong skills in visualisation and SQL, reflecting wide use of Excel and Power BI
Weaker skills in Python, R and big data technologies
Local companies mostly rely on basic tools and hire generalists, a clear gap between university education and market needs
Participants asked for regular meetups, hands-on workshops on Syrian problems, learning paths per role, and access to experts. Those requests shaped everything we did next.