Gaza Schools Reopen Supporting Tens of Thousands After Ceasefire

Following a ceasefire in Gaza, children are gradually returning to schools after two years of conflict, with the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) reopening some schools and providing both in-person and online classes for approximately 300,000 students. Many schools, heavily damaged during the war, are operating under difficult conditions such as overcrowded classrooms without desks or chairs, and some lessons are held in temporary shelters or open areas. Despite these challenges, students and their families express relief and hope as education resumes, viewing the return to school as a symbol of peace and normalcy. UNRWA's "Return to Learning" program is expanding, and international organizations are working to rebuild schools, train teachers, and provide psychological support to children. However, experts warn of a "lost generation threat" due to the extensive damage to educational infrastructure and shortage of teachers, emphasizing the need for security guarantees and sustained humanitarian aid for long-term stability. The resilience and determination of Gaza's children to continue their education amid ruins underscore the critical importance of restoring educational opportunities in the region.