Children of Khan Yunis: Learning Amidst Destruction
In the southern Gaza Strip, children are defying the odds by continuing their education in the most harrowing of circumstances. In Khan Yunis, a group of displaced children, including 10-year-old Karim Qishta, are attending classes in a makeshift school located within a cemetery. This initiative, organized by the Isnad Al-Khair charity, has transformed a former condolence tent into a learning space, allowing these children to memorize the Quran and study essential subjects like Arabic, English, and mathematics.
Despite the fear and trauma associated with their surroundings, these children express a strong desire to learn. Karim, displaced from Rafah due to ongoing Israeli military operations, stated, “We want to learn, whether the Jews want it or not.” His sentiments reflect the resilience of many children in Gaza, who are determined to pursue education despite the destruction of schools and the loss of their homes.
The Impact of War on Education
The ongoing conflict has severely impacted the educational landscape in Gaza. Schools have been repurposed as shelters for the displaced, while cemeteries have become classrooms. According to Islamic education teacher Nismah Al-Deiri, the children witness the funerals of martyrs during their classes, a stark reminder of the violence surrounding them. This unique and tragic situation highlights the psychological toll on these young learners, as they navigate their education amidst grief and loss.
Dalia Shalouf, a member of the Isnad Al-Khair team, emphasized the challenges faced by the initiative, including a lack of textbooks and basic supplies. The volunteers teaching these children are not compensated, and there is an urgent need for protective measures against the elements as winter approaches. Official reports indicate that the conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 12,780 students and has deprived 785,000 children of their right to education, showcasing the dire circumstances in which these children are striving to learn.
A Glimmer of Hope
Despite the overwhelming challenges, the children of Khan Yunis remain hopeful. Rafeef Al-Helou, another student, expressed her longing for education and her aspiration to become a teacher. This determination among the youth of Gaza serves as a testament to their resilience and the importance of education in rebuilding their lives and communities. As the conflict continues, initiatives like Isnad Al-Khair provide a crucial lifeline for these children, ensuring that the pursuit of knowledge persists even in the face of adversity.
