In Gaza, the educational landscape has been severely impacted by years of conflict, leading to a scarcity of supplies and resources in schools. Maha Abdullah Abo Samara, a teacher, describes the challenging conditions where even essential items like pens, paper, and blackboards are missing. Despite these adversities, she highlights the resilience and enthusiasm of children who are excited to return to a semblance of educational normalcy, even if classes are held in tents provided by aid organizations.

For two years, traditional schooling has been almost non-existent, replaced only by sporadic online courses that were accessible to a fortunate few with internet access. The long absence of proper schooling has taken a toll on the children, who have endured not only the absence of education but also the psychological impacts of ongoing violence. Abo Samara notes that the environment of even makeshift schooling represents a vital refuge for these children, where they can find safety, engage in play, and reconnect with peers, which is essential for their recovery and development.

The school where Abo Samara teaches is aptly named the "Academy of Hope," embodying the spirit and determination of both educators and students to continue learning despite overwhelming obstacles. The ongoing effort to maintain some form of education in Gaza underscores the importance of resilience in the face of adversity, with the hope that these young minds will eventually flourish given the chance, despite the challenges they currently face.