The ongoing conflict in Gaza has left deep scars on its population, with one of the most devastating consequences being the disruption of education for an entire generation. Schools have been destroyed, teachers displaced, and children traumatized, leaving them without access to formal learning. The long-term implications of this educational crisis are severe, threatening not only individual futures but also the stability and development of the region.  



This article explores the impact of conflict on Gaza’s education system, the psychological toll on students, the challenges of rebuilding, and potential solutions to prevent a lost generation.  




 **The State of Education in Gaza Before the Conflict**  


Before the recent escalation of violence, Gaza’s education system was already under strain due to blockades, economic hardship, and previous conflicts. However, schools still functioned, and literacy rates were relatively high compared to other conflict zones.  


- **High Enrollment Rates**: Despite hardships, over 95% of children were enrolled in primary education.  

- **Gender Parity**: Girls and boys had nearly equal access to schooling.  

- **Resource Limitations**: Schools often operated in shifts due to overcrowding, and materials were scarce.  


Yet, the current conflict has pushed an already fragile system to the brink of collapse.  


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**How Conflict Has Disrupted Education**  


 **1. Destruction of School Infrastructure**  


Hundreds of schools in Gaza have been damaged or destroyed in airstrikes and ground operations. The United Nations reports that over **60% of educational facilities** have been rendered unusable, forcing children to study in makeshift shelters or abandon education altogether.  


- **UNRWA Schools**: Many schools run by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) have been hit, leaving thousands without classrooms.  

- **Universities in Ruins**: Higher education institutions, including the Islamic University of Gaza, have suffered severe damage, disrupting tertiary education.  


 **2. Displacement and Loss of Teachers**  


Thousands of teachers have been displaced, injured, or killed, creating a severe shortage of educators. Many who remain struggle to provide lessons amid constant insecurity.  


- **Psychological Trauma**: Teachers report high levels of stress, making it difficult to maintain a stable learning environment.  

- **Lack of Safe Spaces**: With no secure locations for schooling, children often miss months or even years of education.  


 **3. Psychological Impact on Students**  


Children in Gaza are experiencing severe trauma, which affects their ability to learn.  


- **Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)**: Many students suffer from nightmares, anxiety, and depression.  

- **Loss of Normalcy**: The constant sound of explosions and loss of family members make concentration in school nearly impossible.  


**4. Digital Divide and Remote Learning Challenges**  


Even before the conflict, Gaza faced electricity shortages and limited internet access. With schools destroyed, remote learning is often not an option.  


- **Lack of Devices**: Many families cannot afford laptops or tablets.  

- **Power Outages**: Electricity is sporadic, making online education unreliable.  


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**Long-Term Consequences of Disrupted Education**  


The interruption of schooling in Gaza will have generational repercussions:  


 **1. A Lost Generation Without Skills**  


Without education, children grow up without critical skills needed for employment, perpetuating cycles of poverty.  


- **Higher Dropout Rates**: Many children may never return to formal schooling.  

- **Child Labor and Early Marriage**: Desperate families may pull children out of school to work or marry early.  


 **2. Radicalization and Social Instability**  


Uneducated youth are more vulnerable to recruitment by extremist groups, increasing the risk of prolonged conflict.  


3. Economic Decline**  


A workforce without education stifles economic recovery, making Gaza more dependent on aid.  


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Efforts to Rebuild Gaza’s Education System


Despite immense challenges, local and international organizations are working to restore education.  


1. Temporary Learning Centers**  


UNICEF and other NGOs have set up tents and mobile schools to provide basic education.  


2. Psychosocial Support Programs**  


Counseling and trauma healing initiatives help children cope and return to learning.  


3. Advocacy for Ceasefires and Protection of Schools**  


Human rights groups call for schools to be designated as safe zones under international law.  



Solutions for the Future


To prevent Gaza’s children from becoming a lost generation, the following steps are crucial:  


1. **Immediate Ceasefire and Safe Access to Schools**  

2. **International Funding for Reconstruction**  

3. **Teacher Training and Mental Health Support**  

4. **Investment in Digital Learning Infrastructure**  

5. **Long-Term Peacebuilding Through Education**  

Conclusion


Gaza’s children are paying the highest price in this conflict—not just with their lives, but with their futures. Without urgent intervention, an entire generation may grow up without education, perpetuating cycles of poverty and violence. The international community must act now to protect schools, support teachers, and ensure that Gaza’s youth are not left behind.  


Education is not just a basic human right—it is the foundation of peace and development. Saving Gaza’s children means saving the future of the region.