Damascus | Action GroupÂ
In a letter attributed to the residents of Yarmouk Camp and circulated by camp residents and the camp’s social media pages, harsh criticism was directed at the UNRWA administration for what was described as a “dangerous deterioration” in the educational process within the camp. The report, submitted by a teacher, is titled “The Education Disaster in Yarmouk,” and highlights a series of problems that threaten the future and safety of the camp’s students
The report indicates that the crisis begins with unprecedented overcrowding, as UNRWA has only opened one school to accommodate approximately 1,400 students, a number that exceeds three times its capacity. This density has resulted in the number of students in a single classroom reaching 60, making the teaching process impossible and creating an environment unsuitable for learning.
The crisis was not limited to overcrowding, but extended to include educational staff. The report criticized the appointment of “unqualified” teachers who are not native to the camp, widening the gap between them and students who require special attention for their difficult psychological conditions. It also pointed to a severe shortage of teachers, which increases the burden on existing staff.
The report points to the dire consequences of this neglect, as some female students were run over as they left school due to the widespread chaos, underscoring the security risks surrounding students.Â
In addition, the letter spoke of “the theft of children’s futures” through the failure to deliver their designated stationery, depriving them of their most basic educational rights.Â
At the end of the report, camp residents issued an urgent appeal demanding that UNRWA:
”¢ Open additional schools immediately to reduce student overcrowding;Â
”¢ Conduct a comprehensive investigation into the run-over incident and the stationery issue and hold those responsible accountable;Â
”¢ Appoint qualified teaching staff from the camp;Â
”¢ Restructure UNRWA’s education department.
The report warns that the continuation of this situation will lead to disastrous consequences, as “time is running out, and our children’s futures are at stake.
” The camp housed 28 UNRWA schools and 20 kindergartens and nurseries. The Syrian Ministry of Education provided primary schools and enabled students to enroll in Yarmouk secondary schools and other nearby schools. Palestinian refugees also benefited from free university education at Syrian universities.