Lebanon's School Year Amid Ongoing Conflict
As Lebanon prepares to commence its school year on November 4, 2024, the country faces significant challenges due to the ongoing repercussions of the Israeli war. This conflict has resulted in widespread displacement, particularly from southern regions to central and northern areas, complicating the educational landscape. The Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education, under the leadership of Minister Abbas Al-Halabi, has announced that despite the adverse conditions, schools will officially open, focusing on providing basic resources to facilitate the educational process.
The Ministry is grappling with the urgent need to ensure a safe environment for students and teachers, as many schools currently serve as shelters for displaced individuals. Approximately 310 public schools remain unoccupied by shelter centers, offering some hope for maintaining educational operations. However, the head of the private school teachers’ union, Ne’meh Mahfouz, emphasized the importance of education, stating that losing an academic year could jeopardize an entire generation. Private schools have already initiated classes in safer areas and are offering flexible solutions, including afternoon sessions to accommodate displaced students.
Diverging Opinions on School Resumption
The announcement of the school year’s start has elicited mixed reactions from various stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and administrators. Some educators, like Nisreen Shaheen from the Lebanese Basic Education Contract Teachers Association, have expressed concerns about the feasibility of resuming classes given the security situation. With over 70% of public school teachers being contract staff, Shaheen warned that accommodating all students may be impossible, particularly in schools housing displaced persons.
Parents also share a spectrum of opinions. While some, like Umm Khalil, prioritize their children's safety over education, others, like Umm Hassan, view the return to school as a vital step towards restoring normalcy and hope for the future. The need for flexible educational solutions, including distance learning, is echoed by families who have experienced the challenges of online education in the past. As the school year approaches, the Lebanese education sector remains in a precarious position, balancing the urgent need for education against the backdrop of ongoing conflict.
