The Dire Impact of War on Education in Gaza
A recent report by a team of academics from the University of Cambridge, in collaboration with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), reveals the catastrophic effects of war on education in Gaza. Since October 2023, the ongoing conflict has severely disrupted the educational landscape for children, youth, and teachers, with predictions indicating that students could lose up to five years of education due to the war.
The findings highlight that Gaza's children have already suffered a loss of 14 months of education since 2019, primarily due to COVID-19, prior military operations, and the current hostilities. The research underscores that if a ceasefire is not achieved immediately, the educational losses could extend significantly, exacerbating an already dire situation. The report emphasizes that education is not being prioritized in international aid efforts, as funding continues to flow towards other urgent humanitarian needs, sidelining the critical role of education as a life-saver for the affected population.
Urgent Need for Educational Support Amidst Crisis
The report indicates that more than 10,600 children and 400 teachers have lost their lives in the conflict, with thousands more injured or displaced. Satellite imagery analysis shows that over 90% of schools in Gaza have sustained damage, many irreparable. UNRWA has attempted to mitigate the crisis by providing educational services in shelters, reaching approximately 8,000 children. However, the study reveals a stark increase in 'learning poverty', with the proportion of children unable to read a basic text by age 10 rising by at least 20 percentage points due to the cumulative educational losses.
Furthermore, the psychological toll on Palestinian children is profound, with many experiencing trauma and hopelessness after years of blockade and conflict. Save the Children reports alarming statistics, revealing that more than 10 children lose limbs daily as a result of the violence. The report calls for immediate action to increase funding for education, as only 3.5% of aid to Gaza has been allocated to this sector, threatening the future of an entire generation. Without enhanced support for education, structured play, and mental health resources, the long-term consequences for Gaza's youth will be devastating.
