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Boy sitting in the rubble of a destroyed UNRWA school in Nuseirat, in the Gaza Strip. © 2024 UNRWA Photo
Boy sitting in the rubble of a destroyed UNRWA school in Nuseirat, in the Gaza Strip. © 2024 UNRWA Photo

Ceasefire in Gaza: Education International calls to rebuild the education system

published 23 January 2025 updated 23 January 2025

Education International welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire in Gaza as a crucial step towards ending the suffering and devastation that has plagued the region for the past 15 months.

This moment presents an urgent opportunity to shift focus from conflict to rebuilding and healing, with particular attention to the education system—a cornerstone of hope and stability for future generations. It is imperative to establish safe and inclusive learning environments where young minds and educators can thrive, free from fear and insecurity.

"'This ceasefire must be a building block for lasting peace and mark the end to a devastating war. Education is fundamental for building peace, it is the light that guides humanity towards a future of compassion, understanding and unity. The rebuilding of school communities is key for a peaceful, sustainable future in the region. Rebuilding Gaza is not just about restoring buildings, but about restoring hope, dignity, and justice for its people.”

Mugwena Maluleke, Education International President

Education is a fundamental right and a powerful tool for peacebuilding. The education system in Gaza has endured catastrophic damage due to prolonged war, with the majority of schools and universities bombed and the educational infrastructure destroyed. Thousands of teachers and students have been killed, and those who survive are deeply affected by the trauma of war. This destruction not only hinders the immediate access to education but also jeopardizes the long-term development of an entire generation in Gaza.

We call on international organizations, governments, UN agencies, and humanitarian actors to prioritize education by investing in rebuilding schools, providing psychological support for students and educators, and ensuring access to quality education for all children. In this effort, UNRWA has a critical role to play as a key provider of quality education in Gaza. Additionally, the involvement of professional education unions will be crucial to ensuring the sustainability and effectiveness of these efforts.

Education unions will continue to play their role as advocates for educators and students, providing crucial input on rebuilding strategies, teacher training programmes, and ensuring fair and dignified working conditions for educators. By collaborating with education unions, local authorities, and international actors, can build a stronger, more resilient education system that meets the needs of their communities.

We recognise the work of EI member organisations in Palestine, who have been instrumental in ensuring access to education under extreme conditions of war and constant bombings and attacks, and for providing humanitarian and professional support. This has been possible through the support of EI member organizations globally.

With sufficient resources and international support, we can work together to implement innovative solutions that bridge gaps created by years of war and violence. Now is the time to unite in action, transcending political divides, to ensure that every child in Gaza has the opportunity to learn, grow, and dream. This ceasefire can be the beginning of renewal and hope in the region.

We urge both parties to honor their commitments, enforce the ceasefire, deliver essential aid to Gaza, and release all hostages. Palestinian children are starving, hospitals are destroyed, and communities are traumatized.

EI reaffirms its call to:

  1. Urgently implement the UN Security Council resolution demanding an immediate and permanent ceasefire, secure entry of aid, ensure the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, prevent forced displacement, and recognize Palestinian rights.
  2. Reopen the Rafah crossing, the only lifeline for over 1.5 million vulnerable people, and call for a massive increase in humanitarian aid.
  3. Ensure the binding implementation of international law in its entirety, noting that selective implementation diminishes us all.
  4. Urge the International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor to expedite the investigation into all allegations of crimes against humanity.
  5. Support the two-state solution promoted by the United Nations General Assembly and UN Security Council resolutions 242 and 338, end the occupation, and address the plight of Palestinian refugees. The first step towards this goal is the recognition of Palestine as a state.
  6. Ensure the unconditional release of all hostages and others held without due judicial process, including education workers.

We are dedicated to strengthening solidarity between unions in Palestine and internationally to ensure that educators' rights are protected.