Palestinian Children Face Immense Challenges Pursuing Education Amid Ongoing Conflict

Palestinian children in Gaza are facing immense challenges in pursuing their education amid the ongoing conflict with Israel. Many schools have been damaged or destroyed by shelling, leaving students traumatized and unable to attend classes.

Fifth-grade students Abed Al-Qara and Muhammed Al-Fajem described the vibrant school life they had before the war, with recess, classrooms, and interactions with the principal. Now, they are faced with bullet-riddled buildings, scattered papers, and damaged books, a grim reminder of the education and dreams they have lost. Despite the devastation, some students like Muhammed Al-Fajem remain hopeful, saying they will set up tents and study there if necessary.

Teachers, such as Muhammad Al-Khudari, are calling for attention to the education process in Gaza and the restoration of education to its pre-war state. The conflict has had a severe impact on the education system in Gaza, where children make up about half of the population, highlighting the urgent need for a ceasefire and rebuilding efforts.

Why this matters: The systematic destruction of the Palestinian education system in Gaza threatens to deprive an entire generation of their fundamental right to learn and express themselves freely. Urgent action is needed by the international community to protect educational institutions and rebuild Gaza's schools to ensure Palestinian children have access to education and a brighter future.

UN human rights experts have raised alarm over the "systematic destruction" of the Palestinian education system in the Gaza Strip amid the ongoing military conflict. Since the attacks by Hamas and the Israeli military assault in October 2023, over 5,800 students and teachers have been killed, and 8,575 have been injured. More than 80% of schools in Gaza have been damaged or destroyed, leaving over 625,000 students without the ability to study.

The experts warn of the devastating long-term impact on the fundamental rights of people to learn and express themselves, depriving another generation of Palestinians of their future. In addition to schools, 195 heritage sites, 227 mosques, and 3 churches have also been damaged or destroyed, including the Central Archives of Gaza.

The experts call on all parties to respect international humanitarian and human rights law and protect educational institutions, teachers, and students. They also note the increased risks faced by women and girls, and the need for mental health support for over 1 million Palestinian children in Gaza.

The experts emphasize that attacks on education cannot be tolerated and that the international community must hold those responsible accountable and finance the rebuilding of the education system to uphold the right to education for the children of Gaza. "The international community must finance and rebuild the education system, in order to uphold the right to education and pave the way for a more peaceful and just future," the experts stated.

Key Takeaways

• Palestinian children in Gaza face education challenges due to conflict.
• Over 80% of schools in Gaza damaged or destroyed, impacting 625,000 students.
• UN experts warn of "systematic destruction" of Palestinian education system.
• Attacks on education violate rights, require international accountability and rebuilding.
• Urgent need for ceasefire, protection of schools, and mental health support for children.