The Middle East conflict has become part of everyday life for the people in the region. The current war has exacerbated the situation. Unfortunately, this also applies to schools, which have to react quickly to the security situation. No easy task, as the Christian-Arab aid organization Seeds of Hope in Jericho reports. And yet, there are also recurring reasons for gratitude and hope.
By Seeds of Hope and Anja Weippert
The city of Jericho has survived many wars and conflicts throughout its millennia-long history. Even now, life in the city, located in the Palestinian territories, is affected by the current war in the region.
Seeds of Hope, a local project partner of Christians Standing with Israel (CSI). The Christian-Arab organization promotes reconciliation between Arabs and Jews through educational programs. A key component of this is a school that provides children from Christian and Muslim Arab families with access to quality education. Through learning, the children are meant to break down prejudices and discover common ground.
Prepared by Corona
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the school had to close for 40 days. But learning continued. “Our mission is to provide a place of learning and growth, even in times of uncertainty,” explained Jessica Hatter, head of the education program. “We are proud to show how our community not only adapted but also achieved outstanding results.”
Thanks to the infrastructure that could be built during the pandemic, teachers were able to quickly switch to online classrooms and design interactive lessons, group discussions and activities that motivated students and kept them in contact with each other.
Every lesson was recorded so that students struggling with internet interruptions at home wouldn't fall behind. What could have been a turbulent time became an impressive example of the resilience of both students and staff, according to Jessica Hatter. "The online phase was a revelation for us as school leaders. It offered unique insights into every single classroom and highlighted the incredible talent of our teachers as well as the diverse needs of our students."
The fact that all students were able to achieve their learning goals for the school year fills both students and teachers with great joy and pride.
Preparations for even more students
Seeds of Hope is eagerly anticipating the new school year starting in September. For the first time, a ninth grade will be starting, meaning an increase of 32 students. To accommodate this, seven new containers are being converted to house classrooms for the ninth grade, offices, restrooms, and an activity room. These containers will be designed to continue providing a nurturing and supportive learning environment where the children can thrive.
Seeds of Hope's overarching goal remains to continue providing families in Jericho with access to high-quality education. Children should have the opportunity to learn, regardless of the political situation.
Standing alongside Israel also means keeping the Arab people and their perspectives in mind. With our Arab-Christian project partner Seeds of Hope in Jericho, we invest in education and reconciliation programs between Arabs and Jews. Learn more about this aspect of our work.
