“University city” emerges in Khan Younis to revive education in Gaza

Amid the destruction of educational institutions across the Gaza Strip, a grassroots initiative has led to the creation of a temporary “university city” in southern Gaza, offering students a chance to continue their studies despite the ongoing crisis.

The project, established in Khan Younis, was not the result of an official plan, but rather an urgent response by academics and activists to the collapse of higher education infrastructure.

With most universities out of service, the initiative provides flexible learning spaces, where lectures are held in tents or open areas using minimal resources.

Students attend classes seated on basic benches or even the ground, while lecturers rely on simple tools such as whiteboards, printed materials, and oral instruction to deliver lessons.

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Despite the absence of laboratories and advanced equipment, both students and professors have developed innovative alternatives to sustain the learning process.

The project seeks to create an environment that includes basic classrooms, internet access, and essential educational materials, enabling education to continue under difficult conditions.

The pilot phase has begun with students from the Islamic University of Gaza, particularly in fields such as medicine, nursing, and engineering, while also opening access to students from other universities in southern Gaza in coordination with their administrations.

Wissam Ashour said the initiative represents “the beginning of a process for the return of in-person education,” highlighting efforts to preserve academic continuity despite the devastation.

The “university city” stands as a symbol of resilience, as students and educators work to keep education alive amid the rubble.

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