Gaza Children Return to Learning Adventures

It’s a big cheer for kids in Gaza! After years without formal schooling, children are finally heading back to classrooms, even if they’re a little different than before. This exciting return to learning is bringing smiles and a much-needed routine back into their lives.Imagine a school where tents are the classrooms – that’s the scene at a special makeshift school in Gaza, brought to life by Unicef! This awesome initiative gathers children from the original Lulwa school and many others who were displaced, all eager to learn. The dedicated principal, Dr Mohammed Saeed Schheiber, with his 24 years of experience, took the helm in mid-November, determined to help students catch up on what they’ve missed. It’s a fresh start for many since the Israel-Hamas ceasefire in October, marking their first return to a regular routine and education.

Even though the original school building was hit in January 2024 and later served as a shelter, it’s now buzzing with learning again! Students like Naeem al-Asmaar, a 14-year-old who used to attend here, are thrilled to be back. He shared how much he ‘missed being in school a lot,’ and for many, this new setup, though basic, fills their time with purpose.

Another bright student, Rital Alaa Harb, a ninth-grader, is already dreaming big, hoping to become a dentist one day! Their determination is truly inspiring.The school is a busy hub, serving 1,100 boys and girls across three shifts daily, with boys and girls attending on alternating days.

Recommended

Gaza’s Sunset Is Stopping People Mid-Scroll and Breaking Hearts at the Same TimeThe Christmas Mass Was Held at the Historic Church in Gaza’s Old TownPalestinian Artist and Director Mohammad Bakri Has Just Passed Away

There are 24 amazing teachers, including Kholoud Habib, who passionately believes that ‘Education is our foundation. As Palestinians, it is our capital.’ While they focus on the basics – Arabic, English, mathematics, and science – it’s a vital step.

Jonathan Crickx, a Unicef spokesman, highlighted the challenges, noting the lack of electricity and internet, and the struggle to get basic supplies. Some children, sadly, are even four years behind, including time lost during the Covid pandemic.

Despite these hurdles, the spirit of learning shines through! Parents like Huda Bassam al-Dasouki, a mother of five, feel a mix of relief and anxiety, but the return to school is a huge step forward. To help the children cope with everything they’ve been through, a counsellor is on hand, running psychological support sessions. It’s not a ‘normal school day’ like before the war, when schools had fully equipped science and computer labs, but this new beginning is all about determination and hope, proving that education truly is unstoppable!

Read next: أريانا غراندي ساعدت في جمع 801 ألف دولار لأطفال فلسطين