Photo by [Middle East Monitor]
According to Gaza-based activist Rana Shubair, Palestinian students have achieved an extraordinary feat, surpassing all academic expectations. Recently, a ceremony honoured 120 Palestinian students with an impressive grade average of around 99.4% and above.
This accomplishment is even more remarkable because these students demonstrated exceptional academic performance despite the recent Israeli military aggression in different Palestinian regions, including various challenges and adversities.
However, amidst the momentous and celebratory occasion, Shubair reflected on the students who could not participate in the examinations. Some of these students are imprisoned for resisting Israeli dominance. In contrast, others have tragically lost their lives during Israeli forces’ raids and incursions. This reflection added a poignant and sombre aspect to the overall achievement.
“The secondary school results, the finals, are a very euphoric time for everyone here. They love to celebrate. They anticipate this day the whole year. On this day you will see fireworks, people buying large platters of sweets and visitations. It’s a very heartwarming moment all here. To see all these young people, despite all the hardships that they went through for a whole year, achieve success and with very high-grade averages.”
Palestinians Overcoming the Odds
Over the past few months, Israeli forces have escalated their actions by conducting “military operations” and raids in densely populated Palestinian territories, significantly losing civilian lives.
Amidst this chaotic and distressing situation, Palestinian students have bravely continued their studies and exam preparations. Shubair shared instances when her children were scared, and she would resort to reading and studying to provide a distraction and comfort during these difficult times.
“I told my children during [an] attack. I tried to distract them a bit. I told them maybe if you study, you’ll get your mind off things. They told me, one of my girls, if we survive to take the exams. It was a grim time … It’s not like a peaceful year. They have to study and live under extraordinary circumstances. They’re expected to study and get high grades … I don’t think these challenges are faced by any other children around the world.”
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Palestinian’s Love for Education
Shubair emphasises that education holds excellent significance in Palestinian society, with a strong appreciation and value placed on its importance. This passion for knowledge has led to a commendable high rate of literacy among Palestinians.
Furthermore, Palestinian parents actively support and motivate their children to excel in their studies and pursue higher education to the fullest extent possible.
Like people worldwide, Palestinians view education as a powerful tool which can transform lives, enabling individuals to break free from limitations. As a result, they aspire for their children to succeed and lead fulfilling lives, transcending the constraints imposed by Israeli confinement.
“Even poor families, if they can’t afford, try by whatever means. They have to give a chance for their children to finish their education because they know that education is the key to success.”
