Gaza Teacher Creates Classroom from Rubble to Inspire Hope

In the heart of Gaza, where destruction and despair have become the daily reality for many, a beacon of hope shines through the rubble. The ongoing conflict has left schools in ruins, with many transformed into makeshift shelters for families displaced by the violence. Despite the overwhelming challenges, one dedicated teacher, Israa Abu Mustafa, is determined to ensure that the children in her community do not lose their right to education.

After an Israeli air strike demolished her four-story home, Abu Mustafa took it upon herself to create a classroom from the debris. Under a simple tent, she has established a learning space for children who have been deeply affected by the war. Her initiative has become one of the few remaining options for education in her neighborhood, providing a glimmer of normalcy amidst the chaos.

“During the war, we had to fill water gallons and collect sticks for firewood. Then Miss Israa found us and brought us here to continue learning,” shared 10-year-old Hala Abu Mustafa, reflecting the resilience of the young minds eager to learn. What began as a small group of 35 pupils has now grown to 70, encompassing children from pre-school to sixth grade, aged 11 to 12.

Since the conflict escalated on October 7, schools have faced relentless attacks, leaving approximately 625,000 school-aged children in Gaza without access to education. The Palestinian Ministry of Education reports that at least 10,490 students have lost their lives due to the ongoing Israeli offensive, alongside the tragic loss of over 500 educators.

The violence erupted when Hamas launched an attack on southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of 1,200 individuals and the abduction of over 250 people. In retaliation, Israel initiated a military campaign in Gaza, which has claimed the lives of more than 40,861 Palestinians, according to health authorities in the region.

While Israel asserts that it takes significant measures to avoid civilian casualties, it accuses Hamas of using human shields and operating from schools—claims that Hamas vehemently denies. In this tumultuous environment, Abu Mustafa’s lessons extend beyond traditional subjects; they offer a sense of structure and routine that is desperately needed.

The tent where her classes are held is far from the ideal classroom setting. Children who once dreamed of studying abroad or becoming doctors and engineers now find themselves in a makeshift learning environment. “We need chairs and tables so the children can learn properly instead of being forced to write on the ground,” the 29-year-old teacher expressed, highlighting the dire need for basic educational resources.

Despite the limited resources, Abu Mustafa remains committed to teaching essential subjects, including religious studies, while striving to keep her students engaged amid the constant threat of bombardment. Gaza, along with the Israeli-occupied West Bank, has historically boasted high literacy rates, and the education system has been a source of pride for Palestinians, even in the face of adversity.

“What could be the child’s wish? They have the right to learn in a safe environment, they have the right to play in a safe place, to not feel any fear,” Abu Mustafa poignantly stated. Her words resonate deeply, reminding us that education is not merely about academic achievement; it is about nurturing hope and resilience in the hearts of the young.

As the world watches the ongoing crisis unfold, the story of Israa Abu Mustafa serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of education, even in the darkest of times. It underscores the need for global awareness and support for the children of Gaza, who, despite the odds stacked against them, continue to strive for a brighter future.