With Dedication and Hard Work Anything is Possible

Gaza continues to go through some challenging times—the highs and lows of the COVID-19 pandemic, the aftermath of the May 2021 bombings, and the debilitating effects of the siege on the economy. Three teachers in Gaza continue to teach with limited resources but much dedication and hard work. Knowing that these teachers are not immune to these challenges, I asked the teachers what motivates them to keep going, to keep teaching?

Maha Eissa, the English teacher, responded “It is very important to give free lessons to the children especially under the current circumstances.” The Women Programs Center - Rafah, where English and Science classes are held, selects children based on their financial condition who cannot afford to pay for extra after-school programs. Maha adds that generally, children lag behind in English as compared to other subjects. The parents don’t know English and can’t help their children; therefore, these classes are absolutely necessary so the children will keep up.

“I want the children to love science,” says Ruwaida Amer, the Science teacher, as she explains her teaching philosophy. The way science is taught in schools in Palestine is all about memorizing the lesson without actually understanding the core concepts. “I wanted the children to come out of the boring rut followed at schools. I make science fun by designing creative, hands-on activities around each lesson.”

Art teacher and famous artist, Laila Kassab believes that “art is the best psychological therapy for children.” Through art, she has helped some children to talk and express their feelings and overcome isolation. Laila made Pinwheels for Peace in her class and encouraged the children to discuss their ideas of peace and what happened to them during the war, through drawing, colors, and writing. Please watch her video, as it is inspiring teachers and parents throughout Palestine to make Pinwheels for Peace too.

It is a true delight when we receive positive feedback from parents of the children—an affirmation that we are on track. “I believe students’ love for the subject is the biggest success,” says Ruwaida. "The children in science class are taking great interest and enjoy studying science and parents have duly noticed this. Student Sahar’s mother said that her daughter loves science more than any other subject!"

Parents of English students have thanked the teacher for the development and marked improvement in the English language skills of their children. The mother of student Ahmed says, “Earlier, I faced a lot of problems with my son’s English. I am pleased that he has become excellent in the language after taking your English lessons.” Art students’ parents also conveyed their messages of gratitude to Laila after seeing an improvement in their children's morale.

Schools opened up in Gaza in mid-August after remaining closed for nearly a year except for brief periods. I am happy to write that these classes are meeting the goal we set out with--that is, providing free education to deserving children, in safety.  All our teachers are teaching in open courtyards, with great ventilation, socially distanced and wearing masks. Had it not been for these classes, these children would not have coped with their studies in school.

While the teachers deserve appreciation for their hard work, I also want to thank you for your contribution to this project. We wouldn't have been able to do this work without you. We sincerely hope you continue to support these children's education.