He was almost treated like a celebrity when he got his graduation cap on.

In a time of war on the continent and chaos in the world, one thing has remained the same. The joy of the newly hatched students. Politics was present when Yousef Al Taleb was given the cap after three years without absence.

Even though the weather is gray and it has been raining all morning, it is as if laughter and tears of joy make the sun shine in the foyer of Frederiksberg Gymnasium. On long tables, broad smiles and flowers are placed side by side with grandparents and champagne glasses. The air is thick with perfume and excitement.

Every now and then a young person comes walking down the red stairs to the foyer from the first and second floors. Each time, they are cheered on by family and friends, defying one of the signs posted for the occasion prohibiting noise.