The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has revealed that over three-quarters of schools in the Gaza Strip need to be rebuilt or restored before they can function again. According to a statement by the Global Education Cluster, a coordinating mechanism between aid organizations, over 76% of schools in Gaza require reconstruction or major rehabilitation.
This devastating situation is a result of the ongoing war on Gaza, which has left most schools turned into shelters for hundreds of thousands of people seeking refuge from the Israeli bombardment. Many schools have been completely destroyed or badly damaged in the onslaught, which has continued since October 7, 2023.
UNRWA emphasizes that education is a fundamental human right and reiterates the need for a cease-fire in the enclave. Despite the ongoing conflict, UNRWA teams continue to reach children with play and learning activities.
The Palestinian death toll from the relentless Israeli attacks on Gaza since last October has exceeded 37,400, with more than 85,600 people injured, according to the Health Ministry in the besieged enclave. The international community has condemned Israel’s continued brutal offensive on Gaza, which has left the region in a state of crisis.
It is crucial that efforts are made to rebuild and restore schools in Gaza to ensure that children have access to quality education. The international community must continue to pressure Israel to end its aggression and allow for unhindered humanitarian aid to reach those in need.