Gaza Envelope Schools See 9% Student Increase Post-October 7

The 2026-2027 school year has begun in the Gaza Envelope's "Takuma" region with 22,233 students across five local authorities, marking a significant 9% increase compared to the period before October 7. This growth, which includes a notable 16% surge in Sderot and increases in Shfela Negev and Hof Ashkelon, coincides with the return of communities to their homes.

During the summer, over 95% of Kisufim residents returned, alongside the return of communities from Holit and Kfar Aza, and the youth cohort from Kibbutz Be'eri. This signifies the region's transition from recovery to renewed establishment.

To bolster community resilience, the Takuma administration is advancing eight major educational projects in 2026, totaling NIS 364 million. This investment includes NIS 184 million from the "Takuma Education Basket" for local authorities, NIS 103 million for additional buildings, and NIS 54 million for informal education programs. The initiative focuses on developing excellence, enhancing English and technology studies, and recruiting and retaining quality personnel for long-term growth.

Avia Friedman, head of the Takuma administration, stated, "The increase in the number of students in all the region's authorities compared to last year is much more than a numerical figure, it reflects the return home, the strengthening of communities, and the transition of the Gaza Envelope from recovery to growth." He emphasized the strategic importance of the education system as a cornerstone for the region's future, aiming to provide excellent education and encourage families to build their lives there, ensuring the communities continue to grow and strengthen.