Gaza families are confronted with difficult choices regarding their children's education as they navigate the ongoing Israeli air raids and a financial crisis. In Deir el-Balah, Khadija Abu Qados prepares her 11-year-old daughter, Jouri, for school in a tent, following the destruction of their home in Sheikh Radwan during the Israeli offensive in Gaza City last September. Jouri and her 14-year-old sister, Ritaj, attend Elyaa’ School, which operates in tents with limited resources, including a lack of desks and air conditioning. The family struggles to afford the modest fee of 30 shekels ($8) per month for the school, as basic needs take priority. Khadija expressed her desire to send her children to private school if financially possible, noting the challenges they face in their current learning environment.
UNICEF reported that around 700,000 children aged four to 17 in Gaza have missed formal schooling for nearly three consecutive years due to the conflict. Only 2% of school buildings are undamaged, and 93% require significant repairs. The ongoing air raids have resulted in the deaths of at least 300 children since last October. In response to the education crisis, parents and teachers have established temporary learning spaces in tents. Noha Khadra, a former teacher, opened Elyaa’ School in January under the Ministry of Education's supervision, enrolling over 1,100 students with only 40 volunteer staff. Despite the challenging conditions, there is high demand for enrollment.
Private schools offer better conditions but are often unaffordable for many families. Zahra Saleh, a mother of two, enrolled her sons in Abdul Aziz Private School after struggling to find affordable options. With her husband unemployed, the monthly fee of 400 shekels ($131) is a significant burden. Zahra works at the school to help offset costs, emphasizing the importance of a structured learning environment for her children. The rising costs of school supplies further strain families, with prices increasing dramatically since the onset of the conflict.
The broader economic situation in Gaza is dire, with over 90% of working-age individuals unemployed. The World Bank estimates that $71.5 billion is needed for recovery and reconstruction in Gaza. Doaa Qdeih, director of Abdul Aziz Private School, offers flexible payment options to accommodate families' financial situations, emphasizing community solidarity. She does not view private schools as a long-term solution to the education crisis and is willing to volunteer if the government provides educational resources.