RAMALLAH, November 18, 2025 (WAFA) – The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, in collaboration with UNESCO, convened a meeting on Tuesday to address the catastrophic state of higher education in the Gaza Strip following the immense destruction caused by the occupation's aggression.
The high-level gathering saw the participation of Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Amjad Barham, UNESCO Representative in Palestine Lily Neyestani-Hailu, and officials from national and international institutions, embassies, and key stakeholders.
The meeting was held to review the findings of a comprehensive assessment and to establish immediate priorities for relief and long-term recovery. The assessment paints a bleak picture, confirming the near-total destruction of higher education and vocational training institutions.
The report documented extensive human losses, including students, professors, and general staff, alongside widespread material damage to infrastructure, laboratories, and equipment, which led to the complete disruption of the educational system.
The report's accurate database is intended to serve as a vital guide for future recovery and reconstruction plans.
Minister Barham confirmed the Ministry's firm commitment to rebuilding the sector in Gaza, stressing the immediate need to support students and restore in-person education as swiftly as possible.
He stressed that this will be achieved by securing alternative facilities for the ruined infrastructure and boosting the technological learning environment.
He highlighted that the occupation deliberately carried out a systematic and comprehensive destruction campaign against universities.
The minister emphasized that the assessment's detailed data is crucial for determining the nature and priorities of intervention, affirming that any effective plan must center on the student, the faculty, and the physical infrastructure.
He underscored that ensuring student tuition fees are covered is a top priority.
Echoing this commitment, the UNESCO representative called for robust support to ensure the continuity of learning for higher education students.
Her appeal included providing temporary learning spaces, prioritizing reconstruction projects, launching digital learning initiatives, rebuilding essential research capabilities, and establishing comprehensive student support programs.
She also reaffirmed UNESCO's unwavering dedication to protecting the right to education, supporting both digital and blended learning solutions in Gaza, rebuilding institutional capacities, and guaranteeing universal access for all learners.
A.D./T.R.
