The Tawjihi Under Siege: How Gaza‘s Students Are Pursuing Education Amidst Conflict
The annual Tawjihi exam – the Palestinian matriculation exam – represents more than just academic achievement. It’s a gateway to university, a symbol of hope, and a testament to resilience. But for students in gaza, taking this crucial step has become an act of defiance against unimaginable hardship. As of October 2023, escalating conflict has fundamentally altered the landscape of education, forcing students to navigate war zones, displacement, and constant uncertainty just to attempt their future.
A Disrupted Education System
For three consecutive years, schools in Gaza have been closed, and the physical infrastructure of education has been decimated. UNICEF reports that nearly every school building in the enclave has sustained damage or been wholly destroyed.This isn’t simply about buildings; it’s about the loss of safe learning environments and the disruption of a generation’s educational journey.
Consider the story of Mr. Ishtiwi, a student preparing for the Tawjihi. He was forced to evacuate his home, leaving behind everything – “My schoolbag, my notebooks, my books, we left them all behind.” Now, his quiet study space has been replaced by the cramped confines of a tent in Deir al-Balah, where basic survival needs overshadow academic pursuits. He describes studying amidst conditions “like in a hospital,” constantly focused on water, food, and aid.
The human cost is equally devastating. Students are not only losing access to education but also their friends and teachers. Mr. Ishtiwi tragically lost two of his closest friends to Israeli airstrikes, shattering the shared dreams of celebrating their Tawjihi results together. “Now, when I try to feel happy, I just remember who I’ve lost,” he shares.
Adapting to a New Reality: The Online tawjihi
despite these overwhelming challenges, the determination to continue education persists. The Education Ministry and the United Nations Development Program made the arduous decision to administer the Tawjihi online via a smartphone app, reaching approximately 79,000 students in 2024 and 2025.
This wasn’t a seamless transition. Gaza frequently experiences Israeli internet blackouts, creating notable hurdles.
* Connectivity Issues: Reliable internet access is a luxury,not a guarantee.
* Power Dependence: Charging devices becomes a logistical nightmare.
* Emotional Strain: The constant threat of disruption adds immense pressure.
Ms. Mkhaimer, such as, relied on her sister’s cellphone for the exam, constantly worrying about battery life and access to power. Mr. Ishtiwi missed his first exam in arabic due to a weak internet connection.
Yet, both students persevered, retaking missed exams and ultimately completing the Tawjihi by mid-September. Their resilience is a powerful testament to the enduring value placed on education.
A Diminished Festivity of Success
Results are expected within one to two months. Tho, the traditional celebrations of Tawjihi success will be profoundly different this year.
* No Homecomings: Many families have lost their homes, eliminating the possibility of displaying banners announcing their children’s achievements.
* Silenced Announcements: The local newspaper, once a platform for sharing student successes, is no longer in print.
* Muted Social Media: Social media feeds are dominated by stories of loss and grief, overshadowing positive news.
* Lost Traditions: The simple joy of a celebratory party with cakes and candies feels like an unattainable luxury.
This shift reflects a broader transformation in how these students perceive the world. As Ms. Mkhaimer poignantly observes, “Before, geography meant drawing maps and coloring them. Now, geography is war.” They are living through history, experiencing firsthand the realities that textbooks only describe.
The Future of Education in Gaza
The situation in Gaza underscores the urgent need for sustained international support for education in conflict zones.Beyond rebuilding infrastructure, it requires addressing the psychological trauma experienced by students and educators.
The Tawjihi exam is more than just a test; it’s a symbol of hope and a lifeline to a
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