2024-11-24 19:00:00
There is desperation on the horizon. When Fatima Assef, a young teacher, lets her gaze wander over the fields of the Bekaa Valley, she can see her home village. But he can no longer live there. It’s one of those weathered villages lined up along a narrow concrete road at the foot of the Lebanese mountains. Sun-bleached images of slain Hezbollah fighters show who is in charge here. From time to time men belonging to the ranks of the Shiite organization stand guard in front of barricaded workshops and shops. The streets are deserted. In every city one or two houses were destroyed by an Israeli air strike.
How does regional conflict in Lebanon affect student access to education and mental health?
Interview: The Impact of Regional Conflict on Education in Lebanon
Editor, Time.news: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Layla Khalil, an expert in Middle Eastern studies and a humanitarian educator. With the current situation in the Bekaa Valley, particularly affecting people like Fatima Assef, a young teacher forced to leave her home, can you help us understand the broader implications of this conflict on education in Lebanon?
Dr. Layla Khalil: Thank you for having me. The situation in the Bekaa Valley is indeed dire. When teachers like Fatima are unable to live or work in their own communities, the educational landscape suffers tremendously. The displacement of educators disrupts not only the continuity of instruction but also erodes trust in local systems, which is vital for effective learning.
Editor, Time.news: You mentioned trust in local systems. How does the presence of groups like Hezbollah impact the educational environment in villages under their influence?
Dr. Layla Khalil: Hezbollah’s presence can create a tense atmosphere for educational initiatives. Their guards and control over the areas contribute to a climate of fear. This can lead to self-censorship among educators who might otherwise want to engage in a more open dialog about the conflict and its implications on society. Moreover, the destruction of infrastructure, as seen with homes and schools targeted in air strikes, drastically affects student attendance and overall educational quality.
Editor, Time.news: With many schools damaged and teachers displaced, what practical advice can you offer to NGOs and local governments trying to address these challenges?
Dr. Layla Khalil: It’s crucial that NGOs and local governments prioritize the psychological support for both teachers and students. Establishing mobile schools and providing online resources can help maintain educational continuity. Additionally, fostering partnerships with international organizations could bring in funding and resources necessary for rebuilding. Focused teacher training programs that prepare educators for conflict-related challenges are also vital to help adapt curricula to students’ needs in these sensitive environments.
Editor, Time.news: Turning to the future, what strategies could educators employ to foster resilience among students in such conflict-affected regions?
Dr. Layla Khalil: Resilience-building should be integrated into the curriculum. Educators can create safe spaces within schools where students can express their feelings about their circumstances. Implementing social-emotional learning (SEL) can empower students to navigate their experiences while enhancing their academic skills. Furthermore, involving the community in educational initiatives can help ensure that the local culture and context are respected and integrated into the learning process.
Editor, Time.news: It sounds like community involvement is key. How can local communities support the educational efforts in areas affected by conflict like the Bekaa Valley?
Dr. Layla Khalil: Communities can play a pivotal role by volunteering, sharing resources, and advocating for the needs of displaced students and teachers. Forming community-based organizations that focus on educational recovery and advocacy can significantly amplify their voices and needs. Additionally, fostering inter-community dialog can help build solidarity and collective action towards peaceful resolutions and educational access.
Editor, Time.news: Thank you, Dr. Khalil, for these insights. As the situation evolves in regions like the Bekaa Valley, it’s essential to remain informed about the educational impact on communities. Your expertise sheds light on a critical issue that affects not just individuals but the future of Lebanon itself.
Dr. Layla Khalil: Thank you for shining a light on this crucial topic. It’s important for everyone to understand the broader implications of these conflicts on education and community resilience.
