Palestinian Education Ministry Launches New School Year Amidst Challenges

The Palestinian Ministry of Education and Higher Education officially launched the new academic year on Sunday, with ceremonies held at girls' secondary schools in Al-Obaiyat, Battir, and Nahhalin, near Bethlehem. The event, attended by Prime Minister Dr. Mohammed Mustafa, Education Minister Prof. Dr. Amjad Barham, and other officials, aimed to underscore support for teachers and the continuation of education despite current obstacles.

Prime Minister Mustafa emphasized the government's commitment to education, pledging to provide a safe learning environment and highlighting investment in education as an investment in Palestine's future. He stressed the importance of continuous development in schools, improving educational quality, and supporting students and teachers to ensure the right to education for all Palestinians. He described the start of the school year as a "message of hope and determination."

Minister Barham stated that the ministry is determined to maintain education as a tool of defiance and resilience, even under difficult circumstances. He noted that while the school year began in the West Bank amidst numerous challenges, it is set to commence in Gaza on September 19. Approximately 1.27 million students are expected to enroll in government, private, and UNRWA schools across the West Bank and Gaza.

The minister also mentioned that the ministry has completed preparations, including strengthening vocational and technical education. He acknowledged the ongoing financial crisis and repeated attacks by settlers and occupation forces targeting schools, assuring readiness to handle potential scenarios, particularly in vulnerable areas. The governor of Bethlehem, Mohammed Taher Abu Alia, remarked that launching the year from Battir, which faces continuous attempts to impose a fait accompli, sends a message of hope and adherence to education as a path to liberation.

As part of the launch, Minister Barham visited Nahhalin Girls' Secondary School, where a new vocational unit for cosmetology was inaugurated. He met with local community representatives to discuss educational matters, praising the efforts of staff and teachers in striving for a stable academic year.