With no universities left in Gaza, student protests bring hope
May 8, 2024
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Student protests in Gaza, with universities destroyed, bring hope to Palestinians. Guests discuss the impact of Israeli airstrikes, global solidarity, and challenges faced by students. They highlight the resilience of Gaza's academic community and global university movements supporting Gaza. The podcast emphasizes the importance of rebuilding and resisting without isolating it from Palestinian liberation.
International student solidarity acts as a beacon of hope for Palestinians in Gaza.
Destruction of universities in Gaza signifies a profound loss in Gaza's intellectual legacy.
Deep dives
Destruction of Gaza's Universities
Israel has destroyed nearly all of Gaza's universities including Gaza University, Islamic University of Gaza, leading to a devastating loss in higher education facilities. The destruction of these institutions has been ongoing since the earliest days of conflict. The bombings targeted key educational establishments like the Islamic University, amplifying the impact on students and the academic community. The relentless attacks have not only erased physical structures but have also inflicted deep emotional and societal wounds on Gaza's education system.
Global Student Support for Palestine
College students worldwide, including in the United States and Australia, have shown solidarity with Palestine through protests and encampments on campuses. Palestinian universities' presidents acknowledged and appreciated these actions as beacons of hope, highlighting the importance of international support. Students in Gaza have expressed gratitude for the solidarity, emphasizing the significance of raising awareness and challenging injustices through unified actions.
Impact on Gaza's Intellectual Community
The toll on Gaza's academic and cultural community due to Israel's actions is profound, with over 95 academics and university professors killed. These losses represent a significant attack on Gaza's intellectual legacy, depriving the region of valuable knowledge and contributions to global culture. Rebuilding Gaza's educational infrastructure will be a lengthy process intertwined with the broader goal of Palestinian liberation, emphasizing the need to break the cycle of violence and prioritize lasting peace.
Student protests are resonating with Palestinians, who face the destruction of nearly all universities in Gaza. Palestinian university presidents signed an open letter saying the protests serve as a “beacon of hope.” We look at what has been lost and what remains.
In this episode:
Jehad Abusalim (@JehadAbusalim), Executive Director, The Jerusalem Fund