Lebanon: What happens to learning when war enters the classroom

Country: Lebanon Source: War Child UK Zeina, a mother and education specialist with War Child, writes from Lebanon "I believe that children, even in the most difficult circumstances, have a huge capacity to keep learning and growing. But they need the right environment to do so." For Zeina, this belief is not just part of her work, it’s part of who she is. As both an education specialist and a mother, she sees every day how deeply a child’s ability to learn is formed by how safe, supported and heard they feel. In Lebanon today, creating that kind of environment is becoming increasingly difficult. More than 360 public schools and 55 technical schools are currently being used as shelters , disrupting the education of around 115,000 children and 15,000 young people. In addition, 46 schools have closed in South Lebanon and Bekaa, impacting 16,850 students. As of April 1st, around 300 schools have gradually started reopening in safer areas, mostly in the north, but thousands of children are still unable to go to school. For many, classrooms have become places of refuge and learning has been put on hold because of the war. With over ten years of experience working with children and caregivers, Zeina has dedicated her career to education and supporting the wellbeing of children and young people. Today, as a Can’t Wait to Learn Education Assistant with War Child in Lebanon, she works to create spaces where children can continue learning, even as war takes place around them. Her approach begins with listening. “When a child feels that they are heard and understood, this reflects directly on their behaviour and interactions, as well as their ability to learn and grow,” she explains. It’s a simple idea, but in a context defined by fear and instability, it becomes essential. Before any lesson can begin, children need to feel safe enough to engage. But safety is fragile. Working in Lebanon today means navigating airstrikes, supporting families who have been forced to flee their homes and carrying the weight of personal uncertainty at the same time. “Many children [in a war zone] are under constant psychological pressure. This affects their concentration and ability to learn.” In response, Zeina and our colleagues adapt their approach. Lessons are interactive, designed not only to teach but also to comfort. Psychosocial Specialist mental health and emotional support is woven into every activity, helping children feel safe, stay engaged and express themselves. “When a shy child starts participating, or when parents tell us their children are excited to attend sessions, that’s when I know we are making a difference. In these circumstances, our role is not just education. It’s also about helping children feel safe again.” In a country where war impacts daily life, Zeina’s work shows what’s still possible. War Child and our partners are leading education activities in five shelters across Lebanon, providing stability and support in these frightening, traumatic times. As we look ahead, our ambition is to build on this work in the same shelters where we already provide child protection support, helping more children continue learning through conflict - one lesson at a time.

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