News|Israel-Palestine conflictGaza children risk snipers to attend tent schoolsStudents in Beit Lahiya are attending makeshift classes in the dangerous ‘yellow zone’ near Israeli positions, as UNICEF warns that trauma has left 25 percent of children with speech impediments.

Overview of Current Educational Challenges

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has severely impacted the region's educational infrastructure. Most of the educational facilities have been destroyed, compelling families to establish makeshift schools in tents within areas close to Israeli forces. These locations, often termed the "yellow zone," are fraught with danger due to their proximity to conflict zones.

The journey to these makeshift schools poses significant risks to students. Children often express fear due to the potential for stray bullets and shelling. The tents, which serve as classrooms, offer no real protection against these threats, yet students and teachers persist in their efforts to continue education under extremely challenging conditions.

Teachers describe a daily routine where lessons are frequently halted due to nearby gunfire. During such instances, students are instructed to adopt a prone position for safety.

Overall Damage and Need for Reconstruction

According to UNICEF, 98% of schools in the Gaza Strip have been damaged, with a significant portion requiring comprehensive rehabilitation or complete reconstruction. The impact on education has been profound, with approximately 638,000 school-aged children and 70,000 kindergarten-aged children having lost two academic years.

Psychological and Developmental Impact

UNICEF and its partners have established temporary learning centers, yet the psychological toll on students is evident. There are reports of developmental regression, including speech difficulties among children, necessitating increased efforts from educational specialists.

Logistical Challenges and Future Plans

The education sector also faces logistical challenges due to restrictions on educational materials entering Gaza. Since October 2023, very few learning materials have been allowed into the region. UNICEF is planning a "Back to Learning" campaign targeting 200,000 children, focusing on core subjects and recreational activities to support psychological recovery.

The success of these initiatives largely depends on the easing of current restrictions, as emphasized by UNICEF's ongoing communication with relevant parties to facilitate the entry of essential learning materials.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.