Intensive efforts needed to restore education to Gazan children

With the dust of war settling in the wounded Gaza Strip, efforts are being undertaken to ensure that ceasefire holds and that enough food supplies are brought in to suffice the needs of the hungry population, among others.

Yet, what is more exigent among the other pressing issues is to consider the future of the new generations, or rather the children who will be out of school for the third successive year with nobody considering the fact that missing education is just a crime which  has the most grave impact and ramifications.

A new generation impacted by illiteracy is like ships that sail aimlessly in seas characterized by bleak darkness while suffering from tempestuous or rather impetuous waves. Such ships are doomed to sink.

Apart from all forms of aid that is needed, it is important to map out a comprehensive plan that ensures the restoration of education to the new Gazan generations that are athirst for knowledge. A nation that is bereft of the chance to introduce education based on research and analysis-- among the most staples needed for a decent life-- is doomed.

World Council of Churches General Secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay expressed support for the “Stand up for Children in War” campaign, which ran through the International Day of Peace, 21 September. 

The Aim of the initiative "Stand Up for Children in War" is to mobilize faith leaders, religious communities and civil society to stand up for children affected by war, advocate for their protection, and promote compassion.

Actually the war in Gaza has caused a devastating and chronic crisis in education, marked by the widespread destruction of schools and universities, rendering most facilities unusable and forcing children out of school for extended periods of time. Gazan students are facing extreme learning loss, psychological trauma, unreliable internet, and lack of electricity, while teachers lack resources and training for online or alternative education.

The destruction of the education system in Gaza augurs a risk of irreversible damage to future generations, while jeopardizing their well-being, future prospects, and the region's stability unless strenuous efforts are immediately effected to rectify the current flaw.

The Catholic Church--that has over the past years been serving as a beacon of enlightenment in the dark nights of illiteracy in the Middle East--will hopefully continue to take a share in solving this chronic problem. Yet, it is regrettable to note that there are no longer operational Catholic schools in Gaza due to the destruction of facilities and displacement caused by the ongoing war. Prior to eruption of the dispute, the Holy Rosary Sisters and the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem operated schools like the Latin Patriarchate Parochial School and the Rosary Sister School, but these are now closed and damaged.

Considering the fact that the Catholic community has been focusing on providing basic education to displaced children within the Holy Family Parish while using temporary structures like a gazebo or chapel, it is hoped that relevant large-scale efforts would be undertaken to address this question. 

All in all, with the entrenchment of peace and the provision of basic needs for the Gazan population, may efforts be undertaken to restore an educated society so as to serve as a cornerstone for building a better future.