Gaza Children Return to In-Person Schools for First Time in Three Years
After nearly three years, students in Gaza have returned to schools, albeit in compromised conditions such as damaged buildings and tent classrooms. With many families struggling to afford uniforms and necessary supplies, the situation remains challenging. UNICEF reports that an astonishing 98% of educational facilities in the region have suffered destruction or damage due to ongoing conflict. Approximately 660,000 children have not attended in-person classes during this period. The significant reopening on Saturday offers hope, following the tragic loss of around 22,000 students and over 770 education staff during the conflict, including 532 teachers, as noted by local education officials.
Key facts
- Hundreds of thousands of children in Gaza returned to in-person teaching for the first time in nearly three years.
- Unicef says 98 per cent of schools in Gaza were either destroyed or damaged during the war.
- Gaza education officials say about 660,000 students have been deprived of in-person learning and regular participation in education.
- The reopening occurred on Saturday.
- The conflict with Israel has killed around 22,000 students and more than 770 education workers, including 532 teachers, according to Ibrahim Ramadan, director of education for East Khan Younis.
- Many families cannot afford uniforms, notebooks, and pens.
- Moayed Abu Mustafa, a student in Khan Younis, said the last time he was in school was three years ago.
- The move is considered a fragile milestone for Gaza.
Entities
Artists
- Moayed Abu Mustafa
- Ibrahim Ramadan
Institutions
- United Nations Children's Fund (Unicef)
Locations
- Gaza
- Israel
- Khan Younis
- East Khan Younis