Teachers in conflict zones displaying 'extraordinary commitment, courage' in the face of adversity

By Bharat Dogra* 

While the devastation of conflict and war zones often draws attention to the tragic loss of life, a less visible yet equally alarming crisis unfolds over time: the disruption of education. This turmoil poses a significant threat to the future prospects of children and their opportunities for growth. 

The situation is particularly dire now, as educational systems have yet to fully recover from the upheaval wrought by the pandemic and its resulting lockdowns. 

Globally, approximately 56 conflicts are ongoing, marking the highest number since World War II. In addition, numerous minor disturbances can disrupt schooling on a local scale. This reality underscores the urgent need for targeted efforts to mitigate the impact of conflict on education. 

While the safety of children must remain a top priority, it is essential to implement measures that allow for continuity in their education. Teachers play a critical role in these efforts. With unwavering dedication, many have found innovative ways to maintain educational activities within conflict zones. 

On September 5, India’s prominent Hindi publication, Dainik Bhaskar, highlighted the commendable efforts of these educators in several conflict areas. Some of the reports were produced in collaboration with The New York Times, while others were independently published by Bhaskar. 

One poignant story comes from a teacher in Gaza who has been displaced six times in recent months. Despite the chaos, she continues to teach a group of 13 children in a makeshift shelter. "When an explosion occurs, the children are terrified. I hold them close for comfort. But as soon as the panic subsides, we resume lessons," she explains. 

She notes that around 500,000 Palestinian children currently lack access to proper schooling, a bleak reality that becomes secondary when daily survival is at stake. While her own family struggles with similar hardships, she finds the strength to persist in her teaching, believing that instilling hope in her students is just as important as their academic education. 

In Manipur, India (photos), recent violence has resulted in schools being burned and many students displaced to shelter camps. In light of these challenges, several teachers have chosen to visit these camps to continue lessons, even when faced with significant obstacles. 

One teacher was particularly moved by the plight of three students; she took them into her home, providing care and regular tutoring. Remarkably, these students excelled in their exams despite their circumstances. The teacher highlights that, beyond education, her greatest challenge is helping them recover from mental trauma. 

In Afghanistan, a teacher reflects on the education disruptions he experienced both as a student and now as an educator. Determined to avoid delays caused by conflict, he sets out for school early each day. His primary challenge lies in ensuring that girls receive an education, and he creatively employs online resources to navigate the strict barriers against female students. 

In Ukraine, some retired educators have come back to the classroom, driven by a desire to support students amidst ongoing turmoil. One teacher recounts holding classes even in bomb shelters, further illustrating the resilience of educators in crisis. These teachers represent extraordinary commitment and courage in the face of adversity. 

However, alongside them, another group deserves even greater recognition: the doctors, nurses, and health workers who persist in providing essential medical care under the most trying circumstances within conflict zones. 

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*Bharat Dogra is the Honorary Convener of Campaign to Save Earth Now and author of "Protecting Earth for Children," "Planet in Peril," and "A Day in 2071"