Gaza Education in Crisis: Over 625,000 Children Out of School for Months

The UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) reports a dire situation for education in Gaza. Over 625,000 children, including 300,000 UNRWA students, have been unable to attend school for more than eight months due to the ongoing conflict, Muslim Miror reported yesterday.

In its statement, UNRWA has emphasized the importance of play and learning activities to prepare children for their eventual return to school, the source mentioned.

The Gaza Ministry of Education paints an even grimmer picture, estimating at least 800,000 students are missing out on education. This includes 40,000 high school seniors who will be unable to take their exams, jeopardizing their futures and university prospects.

Last week, while 50,000 students in the West Bank and abroad took their final high school exams, their counterparts in Gaza remained shut out due to the conflict.

The Gaza Media Office reports that 85% of educational facilities are damaged or destroyed, posing a major hurdle in resuming education after the fighting ends.

Despite the challenges, plans are underway to ensure students don’t lose an entire academic year. These plans aim to provide essential skills and knowledge for students of all levels.