Gaza’s children struggle to find normalcy amid war and deprivation, as schools turn into shelters | File Photo
The children of Gaza, a generation caught in the relentless crossfire of war and deprivation, are on the verge of becoming a “lost generation,” warns Juliet Touma, Director of Communications at the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). In a sobering interview, Tuma outlined the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict on Gaza’s youngest residents, many of whom have not attended school for two consecutive years.
The Harsh Realities
Schools that once buzzed with the laughter and chatter of children now serve as shelters for families displaced by war. The physical destruction of Gaza’s infrastructure and the emotional toll on its inhabitants have left children with no semblance of normalcy. “The natural habitat of a child is inside a school, where they not only learn but also play, make friends, and develop life skills,” Touma said.
Before the conflict, UNRWA provided education to over 330,000 boys and girls in Gaza. Now, those same facilities are makeshift shelters, and the children are left with only rudimentary psychosocial activities to fill the void.
A Generation in Peril
The prolonged absence from formal education has far-reaching consequences. “The longer children stay out of school, the higher the risk of exploitation,” Tuma explained, citing threats such as child labor, early marriage, and recruitment by armed groups. The digital divide in Gaza, exacerbated by widespread poverty and unreliable internet connectivity, has made remote learning nearly impossible.
Trauma and Resilience
The psychological scars on Gaza’s children are immense. Many have witnessed the deaths of loved ones and the destruction of their homes. “Every child in Gaza is traumatized,” Touma emphasized. UNRWA’s teams of psychologists and social workers are providing limited psychosocial support, often through play-based activities to help children reconnect with their childhood. However, the scale of the trauma far exceeds the resources available.
A Call for Action
Touma reiterated UNRWA’s urgent call for a ceasefire. “Gaza is no place for children. The war must stop to allow rebuilding to begin and to give these children a chance at a future.” She emphasized the importance of allowing educational materials into Gaza to help children recover lost years of schooling and reclaim some sense of normalcy.
Hope Amid Despair
Despite the overwhelming challenges, UNRWA remains committed to supporting Gaza’s children. “They’ve never left our radar,” Touma asserted. The organization continues to advocate for their safety and education, even under the direst circumstances.
As the world watches, the question remains: will the international community act in time to save Gaza’s children from becoming a lost generation?
Julliet Touma’s insights are a stark reminder of the urgent need for peace and rebuilding in Gaza. The global community must prioritize the safety and education of children to ensure a brighter future for this war-torn region.
