Gaza – Amid the destruction of schools and the conversion of some into shelters, “School in a Tent” has become a symbol of educational resilience in Gaza. Since its launch in February 2024, the school has experienced significant growth in student enrollment, increasing from just 24 students in its first month to over 100 students by November 2024.
The “School in a Tent” targets children aged 6 to 7 years — children who were denied access to education due to the destruction of schools or their use as emergency shelters. The school provides a flexible and inclusive learning environment, offering students educational lessons, psychological support, and recreational activities. These efforts aim to help children regain a sense of security and hope, despite the harsh conditions of war.
Mrs. Suad, the mother of Leila, one of the students at “School in a Tent,” shares her experience with the initiative:
“When the war began, my daughter was in first grade, and she dreamed of going to school every day. Suddenly, school stopped, and our home was filled with fear and unanswered questions. Every day, she would ask me, ‘Mama, when will I go back to school?’ When she joined SPARK’s class, I felt a glimmer of hope. At first, I was worried, but I quickly saw a difference. Leila can now write her name, she has learned some English letters, and she is more confident in herself. For me, this tent is not just a place for learning; it is a space of hope and a chance for a better life.”
Mrs. Suad’s words highlight the essential role of the “School in a Tent” in supporting children’s emotional and educational well-being. The school is more than just a place for learning; it is a safe psychological haven that restores children’s sense of stability and normalcy. Through the psychological and social support provided by teachers, the school has succeeded in bringing smiles back to children’s faces and helping them overcome the psychological effects of war.
This initiative is not merely an emergency response, but rather a lasting message of hope, emphasizing that every child deserves a chance to learn — even under a tent, and even amid war.
