Gaza’s education sector lies in tatters following Israel’s relentless war, with schools reduced to rubble, students and teachers killed, and the learning process shattered for over a year and a half. Dr. Mahmoud Mutar, Deputy Minister of Education, described the devastation as “catastrophic,” with material losses estimated at $2 billion. Over 12,800 students and 800 educators have been killed, while tens of thousands more are injured or grappling with deep psychological trauma.  

Educational institutions, including UNRWA schools and private facilities, have been systematically targeted, with many completely levelled. The Ministry of Education is scrambling to salvage what remains, shortening the academic year to four months and focusing on core subjects to help students catch up. Yet, the challenges are immense: a severe lack of schools, insufficient furniture, and a dire shortage of educational resources.  

The closure of Gaza’s crossings has further compounded the crisis, cutting off students from opportunities to study abroad. In response, the Ministry has turned to digital platforms like the "Teams" app and makeshift learning centres, though these are far from ideal. “We are doing everything we can, but these are stopgap solutions,” Mutar admitted.  

Dr. Mutar called on the international community to step up support, urging donors to help rebuild Gaza’s schools and pressure Israel to allow the entry of construction materials and educational supplies. “The war has not only destroyed our schools but also the future of an entire generation,” he said. “Without urgent intervention, the consequences will be irreversible.”  

As Gaza’s children struggle to recover from the trauma of war, the world must act to ensure their right to education is not lost amidst the rubble.