Al-Azhar University in Gaza became the first university to reopen its doors to students in the war-torn strip, bringing back those whose studies were suspended for direct in-person learning and welcoming new high school graduates into its academic programmes, reported the Roya News.
During the ‘Israeli’ assault on the strip, the ‘Israeli’ army destroyed several buildings and facilities belonging to Palestinian universities in Gaza, notably Al-Azhar University, which is located in the central part of the strip.
Mohammad Shubair, vice president of Al-Azhar University, said that as part of the recovery from the pain inflicted by the war, the university is returning to elevate education.
Students are returning to their desks in a manner befitting high school graduates and veteran students who had been receiving lectures online despite security and logistical obstacles, such as the lack of electricity and internet access. Shubair added in statements cited by Al Jazeera.
“Students came to Al-Azhar University with hope and enthusiasm to begin a new educational phase, aiming to return to the situation that prevailed before the war on Gaza,’ Shubair told Al Jazeera Mubasher.
“We are staying on the land of Gaza, and we will restore its security, stability, and prosperity, and this comes through science and learning.”
The Gaza Government Media Office previously stated that Israel has killed more than 193 scientists, academics, and researchers and over 830 teachers since October 2023. The office added that the occupation has completely or partially destroyed more than 670 schools and educational institutions and killed more than 13,500 students.
