After months of war and destruction in Gaza, students and educators are finding ways to continue learning despite the challenges they face. Schools and universities have been bombed or turned into shelters, leaving thousands of students stranded and unable to attend classes.
In a tent school near the coast in al-Mawasi, volunteer teacher Asmaa al-Astal is determined to help students continue their education. She believes that they cannot afford to lose a whole year of schooling and is committed to teaching them despite the difficult circumstances.
Meanwhile, Gazans who have crossed into Egypt are also facing challenges in enrolling their children in schools. Many have turned to online learning offered from the West Bank, where Palestinians have limited self-rule under Israeli military occupation.
In southern Gaza, UNICEF is organizing recreational activities and basic learning for displaced children. They plan to create 50 tents where 6,000 children can take classes in three daily shifts.
Despite the obstacles, educators like Wesam Amer are finding ways to help students continue their education. Amer, who left Gaza for Germany, is advising students on matching their courses with options at universities in the West Bank or Europe.
The road to recovery for Gaza’s education system will be long and difficult, but the resilience and determination of students and educators offer hope for a brighter future.