Gaza school year postponed by ten days due to infrastructure needs

The Palestinian Ministry of Education and Higher Education has announced a ten-day delay for the start of the 2026/2027 academic year in the Gaza Strip compared to the West Bank and Jerusalem. Administrative and teaching staff are scheduled to begin work on Wednesday, September 16, while students will return to classes on Saturday, September 19.

The delay is intended to allow schools to prepare classrooms and educational infrastructure following the extensive damage caused by the ongoing conflict. Officials noted that the additional time is crucial for assessing the educational reality and ensuring a safe environment for students, many of whom are currently studying in tents, caravans, or temporary learning points.

To address logistical challenges, the ministry plans to expand in-person learning points within Gaza while maintaining virtual schooling for students unable to reach physical locations or those residing outside the territory, including those in Egypt. UNRWA has confirmed it will follow the same schedule for its educational programs in the region.