Gaza's Al-Azhar University reopens after two-year closure

Al-Azhar University in Gaza has reopened its doors to students after a two-year closure during the prolonged genocide in the region. The resumption of classes at one of Gaza's premier higher education institutions represents a crucial milestone in restoring academic normalcy amid widespread destruction. Students flocked to registration offices as the university announced its return to operations, expressing both relief and determination.

A Campus Bearing Scars of Genocide

The university campus reopening comes despite visible damage from military operations, with bullet marks and munition impacts evident throughout the facility. The southern campus complex was completely destroyed, while teaching equipment suffered extensive damage. Staff members are currently sorting through damaged materials to salvage what remains usable, working against significant logistical challenges to restore educational functions.

Student Resilience Amid Ongoing Challenges

Students returning to their studies expressed profound emotion at resuming their academic journeys. "Returning to university classrooms after two years of genocide has renewed our hope," said Mohammed, an engineering student. "The university is still here - this means a new beginning and a new life." First-year medical student Shahid told Reuters, "These two years were filled with displacement, war and destruction. The university is finally starting classes. We completed our registration, and this is truly a very good thing."

Broader Educational Landscape in Gaza

Before the genocide that began in October 2023, Gaza had 51 universities and colleges serving 226,000 students across the territory. Most of these institutions were damaged or destroyed during the hostilities, with countless books and research materials lost. The two-year genocide also claimed the lives of numerous teachers and students, while electricity and internet outages made online education nearly impossible. The reopening of Al-Azhar University represents a symbolic victory for Gaza's academic community despite the extensive challenges that remain.