How Israel's war on Gaza is destroying Palestinian education | The Stream

Summary

This episode of The Stream explores the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict on education in Gaza. With 80% of schools damaged or destroyed, education has become a battleground for the future of Palestinians. Experts discuss the deliberate targeting of educational institutions as part of Israel’s strategy to undermine Palestinian autonomy and resilience. Through the experiences of educators, students, and scholars, the episode highlights the critical role of education in resistance and the cultural survival of Palestinians despite the immense challenges they face.

Takeaways

• 😀 The destruction of Gaza's educational infrastructure, including schools and universities, has deeply impacted the future of Palestinian students, leaving their classrooms in ruins and their education severely disrupted.
• 😀 80% of schools in Gaza have been damaged or destroyed, alongside significant cultural and historical losses, including heritage sites and archives crucial to Palestinian identity and memory.
• 😀 The term 'scolastici side' was coined to describe the ongoing and systematic destruction of Palestinian educational systems by Israel, a process that has been ongoing since 1948.
• 😀 Education has been a key form of resistance for Palestinians, and its destruction by Israel is seen as a deliberate attempt to undermine their autonomy and culture.
• 😀 Palestinian students and educators continue to show resilience by pursuing education despite immense challenges, including displacement, loss of loved ones, and the destruction of schools.
• 😀 Many Palestinian students, like those in Gaza, have been forced to continue their education under extraordinary circumstances, such as using games to teach basic subjects to children in refugee camps.
• 😀 Despite losing an entire academic year and facing ongoing violence, Palestinian youth are determined to pursue their education, as education is seen as a powerful tool for resistance and asserting their rights.
• 😀 The international community is called upon to support the rebuilding of Gaza's educational system, ensuring that the curriculum and resources reflect Palestinian identity and history, rather than external colonial narratives.
• 😀 Palestinian education and culture are viewed as a direct threat to the Israeli colonial project, as they preserve and promote knowledge about Palestinian history, culture, and resistance.
• 😀 Efforts to support Palestinian students abroad, through scholarships, mentoring, and integration into international educational systems, are crucial for helping them continue their studies and maintain hope for the future.

Q & A

What is the significance of education in the context of Palestinian resilience?

Education is a cornerstone of Palestinian resilience and resistance. It plays a vital role in preserving Palestinian identity and history, offering the youth a sense of continuity and purpose despite the challenges they face. The destruction of educational institutions is a deliberate attempt to weaken this foundation.

How has the destruction of schools in Gaza impacted the community?

The destruction of schools in Gaza has disrupted education for thousands of children, damaging not only the buildings but also the social infrastructure that schools provide. It has led to a loss of educational resources, social connections, and cultural preservation for Palestinian youth.

What does the term 'scolasticide' refer to, and why is it significant?

'Scolasticide' refers to the systematic destruction of Palestinian educational institutions and cultural heritage. It is significant because it represents an effort by Israel to erase Palestinian history, heritage, and the foundation of resistance through education, undermining Palestinian sovereignty.

How do Palestinians continue their education despite the challenges?

Despite the challenges, Palestinians in Gaza have adapted by creating alternative educational methods, such as simplified curricula and educational games. These efforts reflect their resilience and determination to maintain education and cultural preservation amidst the ongoing conflict.

What role does global solidarity play in supporting Palestinian education?

Global solidarity is crucial in pressuring Israel to end its occupation and violence. The panelists draw parallels to the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa, emphasizing that international political and economic pressure can help bring about change in Palestine and support its educational infrastructure.

What are the long-term effects of the destruction of Palestinian educational institutions?

The long-term effects include a disrupted educational system, which hampers the future of Palestinian youth. The loss of schools means fewer opportunities for students to learn, develop skills, and build a sense of community, which could lead to long-term social and economic consequences for Gaza.

How does the targeting of education impact Palestinian youth?

The targeting of education severely affects Palestinian youth by preventing them from gaining the necessary tools to resist colonization and assert their rights. It also impacts their mental and emotional well-being, as they face trauma and uncertainty while trying to pursue an education under extreme conditions.

What are the broader implications of the destruction of schools on Palestinian culture?

The destruction of schools not only affects the present educational system but also has broader cultural implications. It disrupts the transmission of Palestinian heritage, values, and collective memory to the next generation, weakening the cultural identity of Palestinians.

How do international bodies view the destruction of education in Gaza?

International bodies, including human rights organizations and UN agencies, condemn the destruction of education in Gaza as a violation of international law. They argue that targeting schools and educational institutions intentionally disrupts the fundamental right to education and contributes to the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

What is the importance of rebuilding Gaza's educational infrastructure?

Rebuilding Gaza's educational infrastructure is critical to ensuring that Palestinian youth can continue their education, which is vital for their personal development and for the long-term future of Palestine. Education helps preserve Palestinian identity, fosters resistance, and prepares the youth for leadership and empowerment.