Approximately 846,000 students across the West Bank are scheduled to return to their classrooms this Sunday, marking the official start of the 2026-2027 academic year. The Ministry of Education and Higher Education in Ramallah has confirmed that these students will attend classes in 2,537 institutions, comprising government schools, private establishments, and facilities operated by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). This massive educational undertaking is supported by a teaching staff of more than 54,000 educators.
West Bank Enrollment Statistics
Data released by the ministry outlines the distribution of the student population across different sectors. Government schools account for the largest share, hosting 634,294 students. Private schools accommodate 163,787 pupils, while UNRWA schools serve 48,208 refugees. The total number of teachers and administrative staff involved in this operation stands at 54,196 individuals, ensuring supervision and instruction across the region.
Gaza’s Exceptional Circumstances
In contrast, the academic year in the Gaza Strip begins under exceptional conditions. Administrative and teaching personnel are set to commence work on September 16, with students joining formal education three days later on September 19. To mitigate the severe infrastructure damage caused by the war that began in October 2023, authorities are preparing approximately 700 ready-made educational points and 25 temporary schools. Additionally, virtual education continues for around 541,000 students who cannot access physical classrooms.
The Ministry is also executing construction projects aimed at increasing capacity. These initiatives include building 17 new schools, 183 classrooms, and an educational facility, costing nearly $19.5 million. Further investments totaling approximately $6.9 million are directed toward three kindergartens and two vocational schools. These projects are expected to provide educational seats for roughly 6,000 additional students.
Impact of Conflict on Education
The educational sector in Gaza continues to face profound challenges following the destruction of its infrastructure. According to recent data from UNICEF, approximately 98% of school buildings in the strip have been damaged. More than 93% require extensive rehabilitation or complete reconstruction, while 81% have suffered direct hits. Nearly 700,000 children have been deprived of face-to-face education for three consecutive academic years.
As of April 2026, data indicates that about 420,000 children—representing three out of every five—remain excluded from any form of face-to-face schooling. The ongoing crisis has created significant shortages in educational supplies, safe spaces, and qualified teaching staff. Furthermore, students and educators face persistent risks from rubble and unexploded ordnance, limiting access to the limited temporary learning spaces available.
