The Impact of Political Circumstances on the Education System in Palestine

By: Mahfuza Maisa

Abstract: 

This research paper explains the significant impact of political circumstances on the education system in Palestine. It discusses the challenges students and teachers face due to ongoing conflicts and occupation. It provides a historical overview, detailing key events that have shaped the educational landscape such as the establishment of Israel and subsequent uprisings. Key points include difficulties in accessing schools because of checkpoints and barriers, shortages of resources like books and supplies, and changes in the curriculum shaped by political influences. The paper also mentioned the emotional impact of conflict on students and teachers. Despite these difficulties, there are efforts from local groups and international organizations working to improve education in the region. The aim is to show the connection between education and politics in Palestine while suggesting ways to enhance educational opportunities for all.

Introduction:

The education system in Palestine has a long history influenced by culture and politics. The Palestinian education system developed a good structure, including schools that taught many subjects like reading, writing, math, science, and art. Schools were spaces not only for learning but also for keeping cultural traditions alive. They aimed to give students skills that would help them succeed in life. Before major conflicts began, the education system aimed to provide learning opportunities to children and young adults. Education was seen as very important for the growth of society. Without access to quality and inclusive education, individuals are unable to comprehend their fundamental rights, advocate for them, or discern when these rights are violated. Children acquire knowledge of their basic rights, encompassing the rights to education, healthcare and protection from violence. Additionally, they grasp the significance of respecting the rights of others, enhancing their capacity for empathy and understanding. (Education Key to Protecting Human Rights in Palestine – Global Campus of Human Rights, n.d.). Several political factors affected education in Palestine. Issues like occupation and territorial disputes made it hard for students to get to school. Schools often faced closures or damage due to conflicts, and there were often not enough qualified teachers (ACAPS, n.d.). In some cases, what was taught in schools was influenced by the political situation. Additionally, various international organizations from other countries helped by providing funding, training teachers, and giving resources to schools to strengthen education, even when challenges arose. \

Brief History of Political Turmoil in Palestine

The history of political turmoil in Palestine has been deeply connected with the broader Arab-Israeli conflict and is characterized by a series of significant events, socio-political developments, and a lasting struggle for rights and self-determination. It is important to recognize that Palestine, historically, has been a land where various peoples and cultures mingled marked by long-standing religious significance to Jews, Christians, and Muslims. 

Although the turmoil is often associated with the 20th century, tensions in the area date back centuries. Before World War I, Palestine was part of the Ottoman Empire. The Ottoman Empire was a large and powerful state that existed for many centuries, starting around the late 13th century until the early 20th century. Palestine was one of the many countries ruled by the Ottoman Empire, and it included many regions like parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. The Ottomans governed this region for about 400 years, from the early 1500s until World War I in 1917. Under Ottoman rule, cities like Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and Gaza had significant importance. The Ottomans worked on improving infrastructure, building roads, and increasing trade. However, there were also challenges, such as conflicts between communities and the effects of the empire's decline. After World War I, the Ottoman Empire fell apart, leading to changes in rule and boundaries in the region which laid the foundation for later conflicts in Palestine (I. Ottoman Rule, n.d.).

In 1917, during World War I, the British government expressed support for the establishment of a "national home for the Jewish people" in Palestine through the Balfour Declaration. After the war, the League of Nations granted Britain a mandate over Palestine, which further intensified Jewish immigration to the area and the resulting tensions with the Arab population. As Jewish settlements expanded, violence erupted between Arabs and Jews, with mounting nationalist sentiments on both sides. (II. British Occupation and Early Mandate, n.d.)

The conflict increased dramatically with the United Nations Partition Plan in 1947, proposing the division of Palestine into separate Jewish and Arab states. While the Jewish community accepted the plan, the Arab states and Palestinian Arabs rejected it which led to violence. In May 1948, David Ben-Gurion proclaimed the state of Israel. Subsequently, the surrounding Arab states invaded, leading to the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. The war resulted in a significant displacement of Palestinians, about 100,000 became refugees, and this event is known as the Nakba (meaning "catastrophe"). (Milestones in the History of U.S. Foreign Relations, n.d.)

In June 1967, Israel engaged in the Six-Day War against Egypt, Jordan, and Syria, resulting in the occupation of the West Bank, Gaza Strip, East Jerusalem, the Sinai Peninsula, and the Golan Heights. This further complicated the political landscape, as Israel established settlements in the occupied territories, which became a focal point of contention. (BBC, n.d.).

The First Intifada, a Palestinian uprising against Israeli occupation, began in December 1987 and lasted until the early 1990s. It was characterized by widespread protests, strikes, and civil disobedience showing the growing frustration within the Palestinian community. This uprising drew international attention to the plight of Palestinians though it was met with heavy-handed military responses from Israel. (The First Intifada, 1987-1993, n.d.)

In an attempt to resolve the conflict, the Oslo Accords were signed in 1993,  showing a framework for peace and establishing the Palestinian Authority (PA) with limited self-governance in parts of the West Bank and Gaza. The accords raised hopes for eventual peace and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. However, key issues including the status of Jerusalem, borders, and the right of return for refugees were left unresolved. (Jazeera, 2023).

The Second Intifada erupted in September 2000, triggered by tensions related to the visit of Israeli politician Ariel Sharon to the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem. This period was marked by intense violence, suicide bombings, and military operations, resulting in thousands of casualties on both sides. The conflict during this period brought about a further erosion of trust between Israelis and Palestinians. (Adam, 2020)

In 2005, Israel decided to withdraw its settlers and military from the Gaza Strip. However, tensions remained high and in 2006, the Islamic political and militant group Hamas won a majority in Palestinian elections. The subsequent conflict between Hamas and the rival Fatah party led to Hamas taking control of Gaza in 2007, resulting in a blockade by Israel and Egypt, which severely restricted movement and supplies into the territory. (Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Timeline, n.d.)

Since then, several wars have erupted between Israel and Hamas, notably in 2008-2009, 2012, and 2014, resulting in significant destruction and loss of life in Gaza. Continued settlement expansion in the West Bank, military operations, the blockade of Gaza, and political divisions among Palestinian leadership have perpetuated a cycle of violence and unrest. Events such as the 2018 "Great March of Return," protests at the Gaza border, and the U.S. recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital in 2017 have further fueled tensions.

Major Events Affecting the Education System in Palestine

The education system in Palestine has faced challenges due to the ongoing political turmoil which resulted in significant disruptions at many points throughout recent history.

The establishment of Israel in 1948 had an immediate and lasting impact on education in Palestine. The displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians meant that many schools were abandoned or destroyed. Many Palestinian refugee students found education through United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) schools, which aimed to provide them with basic education. However, not all students had access, and challenges related to overcrowding emerged. (Why Israel Bombs Schools, n.d.)

Both the First and Second Intifadas severely disrupted education. During the First Intifada (1987-1993), schools were often closed due to conflict, and educators faced uncertainties related to safety. The uprising resulted in a generation of students missing out a lot of their education. The violence during the Second Intifada (2000-2005)continued to impact schools where many children faced trauma, and educational infrastructure suffered. The Israeli military presence and restrictions on movement further complicated the ability of students to attend school regularly.

Challenges Faced:

In the years following the Intifadas, the Palestinian Authority made efforts to reform and improve the education system, including trying to raise literacy rates and improve curriculum. However, significant challenges remained due to limited resources, political division between the West Bank and Gaza, and ongoing conflict-related disruptions.  

The education system in Palestine is severely affected by restrictions on movement, mainly due to checkpoints and barriers. Many students find it difficult to reach their schools, leading to inconsistent attendance and disrupted learning. Additionally, the effects of occupation often damage school infrastructure, compounding the issue as facilities may be unfit for learning or completely inaccessible. Many schools lack essential materials such as books, technology, and basic facilities, which impacts the learning experience. 

The curriculum in Palestinian schools is often influenced by political narratives, resulting in changes that may not reflect the diverse needs of students. This can lead to issues surrounding censorship and limited educational freedom, restricting teachers' ability to present comprehensive and unbiased content. As a result, students may receive an education that lacks critical thinking elements and does not fully prepare them for future challenges.

Displacement has a profound impact on the education of Palestinian students, particularly those attending UNRWA schools. These schools often face overcrowding and limited resources, making it challenging to provide quality education. Furthermore, Palestinian refugees in neighboring countries encounter additional obstacles, such as varying access to educational facilities and sociopolitical challenges that affect their ability to thrive academically. 

Despite the numerous challenges, there are notable successes and examples of resilience within the Palestinian education system. Local NGOs and international organizations have initiated various programs aimed at improving education, such as providing training for teachers, supplying educational materials, and enhancing school infrastructure. These initiatives have made a favorable impact, creating opportunities for learning even in challenging circumstances. Moreover, stories of resilience from educators and students highlight their determination to overcome adversity, with many continuing to pursue their education and personal goals despite the obstacles they face. This commitment underscores the importance of hope and perseverance in the educational landscape of Palestine.

Conclusion 

The Ottoman Empire's rule over Palestine had some negative impacts, including social tensions among different communities and challenges in governance as the empire declined. These issues sometimes led to conflict and limited opportunities for all groups to thrive. However, despite these challenges, the people of Palestine showed resilience. They maintained their cultural identities, traditions, and communities, finding ways to adapt and survive through difficult times. The ongoing conflict poses formidable challenges, but education remains an important area for both hope and potential development in Palestinian society.

References:

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