FLAGSHIP PROGRAMMES
EDUCATION IN CRISIS
- GINA ZIAD ASSAF
THE IMPACT OF THE 2024 WAR IN LEBANON AND PATHS TO RECOVERY
The 2024 conflict has disrupted schooling for over 500000 students, with more than 70% of public schools repurposed as shelters for displaced families
1.SCHOOLS TURNED SHELTERS AND A SYSTEM IN DECLINE
The war has displaced over 1.5 million people, forcing thousands to take refuge in public schools
43% of public school students lost access to education Teachers face financial instability, with salaries plummeting from $1,300 in 2019 to roughly $40 today The World Bank estimates over $300 million in lost education funding
2.THE NEED FOR EMERGENCY EDUCATION MODELS
Lebanon must focus on adaptable education models that ensure learning continuity
Temporary Learning Spaces (TLS): Setting up classrooms in public buildings, community centers, and open spaces to accommodate displaced students
Mobile Schools and Digital Education: Deploying buses equipped with learning tools and expanding digital platforms for remote education
Teacher Support and Incentives: Providing financial aid and trauma-informed training to educators to ensure stability and quality teaching
NGO and International Partnerships: Strengthening collaborations with UNICEF, Save the Children, and local organizations to mobilize resources
Psychosocial and Mental Health Support: Implementing trauma-informed teaching and counseling services for students and educators
3.PROPOSED SOLUTIONS FOR LEBANON
Repurposing Public Spaces: Schools currently serving as shelters should gradually transition into dual-purpose spaces, allowing both education and temporary housing Leveraging Technology: Expanding access to online learning through subsidized internet, digital devices, and remote teacher training
Alternative Learning Models: Implementing communityled educational hubs and flexible non-formal education programs
International Support and Funding: Advocating for increased global aid to restore Lebanon’s education infrastructure and teacher workforce
Mental Health Interventions: Integrating psychological support into the education system to help students and teachers cope with trauma
About Author
- GINA ZIAD ASSAF
- GINA ZIAD ASSAF. is an experienced Placement Officer and Career Specialist at the University of Balamand’s Career Services Center. With a strong background in career coaching, CV writing, and interview preparation, she helps individuals create compelling career narratives and achieve their professional goals. Gina holds an MBA in Finance and a BBA in Banking & Finance from the Lebanese International University. Fluent in Arabic and English, she specializes in personalized career solutions and has a proven record of accomplishment of guiding clients through career transitions. Gina also provides one-on-one coaching sessions to empower job seekers with the skills and confidence they need to excel.