Despite adversities, Palestinian educators say they continue to uphold their commitment to education.
Despite adversities, Palestinian educators say they continue to uphold their commitment to education.
Palestine’s Ministry of Education brings to light the tragic loss of over 200 teachers and educational staff during the recent 69-day conflict in the Gaza Strip as it commemorated Palestinian Teachers’ Day.
The day served as a somber reminder of the challenges faced by educators in the region.
The Ministry of Education paid homage to the dedication and sacrifice of Palestinian teachers who continue to educate under extraordinarily challenging circumstances. Their efforts in the Gaza Strip and West Bank, particularly in areas like Jerusalem, the Jordan Valley, and Masafer Yatta, are highlighted as beacons of resilience and commitment.
The Ministry’s statement emphasized the ongoing difficulties faced by educators in the Gaza Strip and West Bank under the persisting Israeli occupation. It noted the significant impact of the conflict on the educational sector, with many teachers and staff losing their lives, and the daily struggles of educators in accessing their schools and facing harassment.
Despite the adversities, Palestinian teachers display an extraordinary commitment to their profession. The Ministry underscored their unwavering spirit in educating students through various means, including physical classrooms, online platforms, and even from sheltering centers in Gaza. Teachers in Jerusalem were particularly praised for maintaining the integrity of the Palestinian curriculum and narrative.
On this occasion, the Ministry made a fervent appeal to international bodies, especially UNESCO, to protect Palestinian educators and the education sector from ongoing threats. This call for action underscores the need for international intervention to ensure the safety and dignity of Palestinian teachers.
The recent airstrikes on the Islamic University of Gaza, a significant educational establishment, demonstrate the profound human impact of the Israel-Hamas conflict. The university suffered considerable damage, raising concerns about the future of higher education in the region.
Israeli military sources claim the Islamic University of Gaza had become a crucial center for Hamas, serving various operational purposes. This allegation intertwines educational institutions with the political and military aspects of the conflict, adding a layer of complexity to the ongoing situation.
The conflict has extended its toll to the international student community, with reported fatalities among students from various countries. This aspect highlights the far-reaching impact of the conflict on the global academic community.
Established in 1978, the Islamic University of Gaza is a crucial institution in Gaza’s educational landscape. Its significant role is underscored by its large student population, diverse academic programs, and international partnerships.
