In the past two weeks, half of Lebanon’s public schools have been converted into shelters for displaced people, causing severe disruptions to children’s education for the sixth consecutive year. This growing crisis is deepening the impact on children's long-term physical and mental well-being.
The Lebanese Ministry of Education has postponed the start of the school year from October 14 to November 4, with nearly 40% of the country's 1.5 million students displaced from their homes due to escalating violence. Around 500 public schools are now functioning as collective shelters, following intense conflict that displaced over 1.2 million people since September 23.
Lebanon's children have faced compounded challenges for years, including the COVID-19 pandemic, political unrest, the Beirut port explosion, economic hardships, and teacher strikes. Now, with the resumption of violence in October 2023, more than 2,000 people have been killed, including about 127 children, and many more have been injured.
Salim, a father of three boys aged 12, 16, and 17, shared that his family has been forced to relocate eight times in the past year. His children have not had proper schooling since 2020, and survival has become the primary focus. Sawsan, a mother of two young children, recounted the terrifying experience of fleeing Israeli airstrikes and now living in a school, where her children wonder if they will study there too.
Education plays a crucial role in restoring normalcy for children during crises. However, the closure of schools and the suspension of educational activities in recent weeks have deprived children of vital support. These interruptions pose significant risks to children’s learning and social development, with many at risk of dropping out or falling behind.
Save the Children is working to ensure that children in Lebanon can access education, even in these challenging times. Since the violence escalated, the organization has supported over 2,100 displaced children with emergency learning, psychosocial support, and educational materials. Efforts are focused on providing continuity in learning and supporting children's mental health and overall well-being.
Parents are eager for their children to return to school, recognizing education as critical for their children's future and the recovery of the country. Schools, in addition to providing education, offer access to essential services such as healthcare and mental health support. Save the Children calls for an immediate ceasefire to protect children and ensure their right to education.
Save the Children has been active in Lebanon since 1953 and continues to support displaced families, including Lebanese, Syrian, and Palestinian children. Their efforts include providing cash assistance, food, hygiene kits, and emergency education and protection services in shelters throughout the country.
