Gaza ministry appeals for protection of institutions as schools reopen

Gaza’s Education Ministry has pleaded with the global community to halt the ongoing conflict in the region and safeguard educational facilities and personnel. The urgent appeal coincides with the commencement of the academic year on Saturday, with approximately half a million students returning to classrooms across the Gaza Strip, many of them in makeshift learning environments. The ministry announced the resumption of classes amid the exceptional circumstances following a three-year interruption due to Israeli aggression.

In a statement, the ministry declared that the commencement of the new academic year was a result of completing essential preparations and evaluating the educational landscape, considering various pathways tailored to the needs of students within and outside the Strip. The delay in the start was attributed to technical, logistical, and environmental factors, including extreme heat and the fact that numerous students would be learning in tents and shelters.

The ministry explained that education would be delivered through two primary avenues, namely in-person and virtual instruction, to ensure uninterrupted learning and academic advancement.

The in-person track will primarily benefit students residing in Gaza who can attend regular schools, with approximately 700 learning centers established throughout the area. Additionally, 25 temporary schools are expected to open soon. Virtual schools will cater to students unable to access in-person classes, amounting to around 20,000 students inside the Strip and 70,000 outside, particularly in Egypt.

The total student population served by the educational system in Gaza amounts to approximately 541,000, including 100,000 enrolled in UNRWA-run institutions.