In response to the severe disruption of education in Gaza, Sharek Youth Forum launched the Bridges Popular Education Program to help children and adolescents continue learning despite displacement and crisis conditions. Since its launch, the programme has reached 4,000+ children and adolescents, delivering 72 daily classes in displacement camps and other temporarily safe spaces—supported by 500+ trained volunteers who facilitate learning, track progress, and provide essential materials.

What We Provide

To sustain learning under emergency conditions, the programme focuses on practical, field-based support:

• School supplies and learning kits (stationery, books, and educational materials)
• Safe, temporary learning spaces in shelters and displacement locations
• Continuous learning opportunities that adapt to movement and changing conditions

Education as Resilience: Learning and Wellbeing Together

Bridges is designed to support not only learning outcomes, but also children’s emotional wellbeing. Volunteers receive training that helps them create safe, supportive learning environments, including:

• Trauma-informed education to support children affected by stress and distress
• Interactive and play-based learning methods that keep learning engaging and motivating
• Approaches that strengthen peer connection, routine, and emotional stability

Delivering Learning Despite Constant Change

With schools damaged, repeated evacuations, and limited resources, the programme uses flexible solutions to keep education going:

• Temporary classrooms (including tents and adapted spaces) to continue teaching
• Support facilities where possible, such as canteens during learning hours
• Learning tools and creative materials that encourage expression and wellbeing

Community-Led Continuity

A key strength of Bridges is its community-based delivery model. By empowering volunteers and local facilitators, the programme strengthens ownership and ensures continuity—helping children reclaim their right to education and providing families with hope through structured, safe learning spaces.