The ongoing Israeli aggression in Gaza has severely disrupted education for over a year, with schools and universities destroyed, leaving hundreds of thousands of children deprived of their fundamental right to education. This has resulted in not only academic setbacks but also significant psychological distress, as schools once offered a sense of safety and stability. Psychologist Iman Al-Kashef warns that the long-term consequences of this disruption could affect an entire generation’s mental health and future opportunities.
Children are experiencing anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues, with many struggling to focus or learn. The loss of their school environment, which played a critical role in both their academic and emotional development, has intensified these challenges. The longer the disruption persists, the harder it becomes for children to regain their motivation and sense of normalcy.
Al-Kashef advocates for urgent action, including psychological support and alternative educational solutions such as e-learning or temporary schools. Without prompt intervention, Gaza risks losing an entire generation to the enduring effects of war, making investment in children's education today essential for the future.