UNICEF: Children in Gaza can start learning again, but they are traumatized

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  • UNICEF: Children in Gaza can start learning again, but they are traumatized

The UN children's agency says it is opening makeshift learning spaces for children in the Gaza Strip. But it notes that the children are suffering from trauma and are worried about whether the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas will continue.

The United Nations Children's Fund, or UNICEF, estimates that more than 90 percent of the schools in Gaza have been damaged or destroyed, due to Israel's attacks. It says the few schools that have survived are still being used as shelters.

UNICEF is setting up temporary learning spaces in the Gaza Strip to enable children to study again. The agency says many of the spaces are in tents. The agency says children can learn Arabic, English, math and other subjects. It also says that it is providing the children with stationary, bags and dietary supplements.

A UNICEF official said that children in Gaza have been robbed of their childhoods. She noted that the learning spaces are places where they can get a bit of a "reprieve." But she pointed out that many of the children are experiencing severe symptoms of trauma, due to the intense fighting. She said some children completely withdraw and stop speaking, while others shake and scream when they hear sounds made by drones.

The UNICEF official said children walk up to her when they see her in Gaza. She reported that, while pulling her arm, they ask if the fighting is going to start again and why more assistance has not come.

The official said people are terribly afraid that aid could be completely halted or that the ceasefire could break down.

Source: NHK World