Gazan schools reopens as struggling psychologically after the war • FRANCE 24 English

Key Concepts

• Gaza Education System Restoration
• Impact of War on Students and Teachers
• UNRWA's "Return to Learning" Program
• School Destruction and Displacement
• Psychological Toll on Students
• Resource Scarcity in Temporary Accommodations
• Right to Education

Restoration of Gaza's Education System Amidst War's Aftermath

Gaza students are returning to class despite severe shortages of essential learning materials like books and pens, and a decimated school infrastructure. Many are now attending classes in temporary accommodations, such as those established by UN agencies, highlighting the challenging circumstances under which educators, students, and humanitarian workers are striving to rebuild the education system. The primary obstacles are the material and psychological consequences stemming from two years of conflict.

Impact of Resource Scarcity and Displacement

The lack of resources within shelters for displaced people significantly impacts students' ability to study and their overall educational experience. As one student stated, "There is a lack of resources in the shelters for displaced people and this affects us, our studies and all the students. It affects our efforts." This situation underscores the fundamental right to education and the desire for normalcy, as articulated by another student: "We have the right to education and we have the right to live like other children around the world."

UNRWA's "Return to Learning" Program

A month after a fragile ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, the United Nations Palestine Refugee Agency (UNRWA) is intensifying its "Return to Learning" program in Gaza. This initiative aims to re-establish educational access for children in a region where the education system has been severely damaged.

Scale of Destruction and Accusations

The extent of the damage to Gaza's educational infrastructure is staggering. According to United Nations figures, over 92% of Gaza schools have been either partially or completely destroyed. Last year, UN experts leveled accusations against Israel, alleging the deliberate destruction of the education system. In response, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that schools were utilized by Hamas as command centers.

Addressing the Psychological Toll on Students

Educators are prioritizing the psychological well-being of students, recognizing the profound trauma they have endured. Teachers are encouraged to approach each student with empathy, understanding that they share similar experiences. As one teacher explained, "I consider each student's psychological state. I live and face the same circumstances at home and I know what they've been through. Therefore, we must treat each student as if they were my own son or daughter, and I take their psychological needs into account as much as possible." This approach is crucial given that an estimated over 600,000 school-aged children have experienced limited access to face-to-face learning since the war commenced.

Conclusion

The return of Gaza students to class is a testament to resilience in the face of immense destruction and psychological hardship. While UNRWA's "Return to Learning" program offers a vital lifeline, the scale of school destruction and the ongoing resource scarcity in temporary accommodations present significant challenges. The emphasis on addressing the psychological needs of students, alongside the pursuit of their right to education, is paramount in the ongoing efforts to rebuild Gaza's educational landscape.