Gaza: The Islamic University of Gaza has initiated a gradual return to in-person learning within its damaged facilities, marking a significant step for students after a two-year hiatus caused by the conflict that devastated the region's educational infrastructure.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Israeli conflict resulted in the destruction of 165 educational institutions, while another 392 suffered partial damage, severely impacting Gaza's education sector. Despite these challenges, hundreds of students have returned to classrooms, showcasing the determination of the community to restore education amid the ongoing recovery efforts.
The Islamic University resumed face-to-face instruction on Saturday, two years after the conflict halted educational activities. During this period, attempts at online learning were hindered by displacement, power outages, and damaged facilities.
Parts of the university continue to serve as shelters for displaced families, prompting university officials to urge authorities to provide alternative housing solutions. Estimates suggest that 300,000 tents and prefabricated housing units are needed to address the shelter needs resulting from the extensive infrastructural damage.
Islamic University President Asaad Yousef Asaad described the return to in-person instruction as a historic moment, emphasizing the community's resilience and passion for education. He noted that a phased plan for a full return is being coordinated with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education.
The university has been relying on online education during the conflict, with 4,000 students graduating through remote learning. Now, for the first time since October 2023, new students are attending classes in person.
Students like Malak al-Moqayad and Sama Radi have expressed their happiness and pride in resuming their education despite the university's ongoing recovery from the conflict. They emphasized the importance of in-person learning, particularly in practical fields like medicine.
Since October 2023, the conflict has resulted in nearly 70,000 casualties in Gaza, mostly women and children, and more than 170,900 injuries, leaving much of the enclave in ruins.