In a picturesque village like Froun in southern Lebanon, educators face the formidable challenge of preparing for a new school year while simultaneously supporting displaced community members. The dual role of local schools as educational institutions and shelters for those affected by recent conflicts highlights the resilience of communities in the face of adversity. As efforts intensify to restore basic services like water and electricity, the commitment of educators like Principal Abbas Makki shines a light on the hope for recovery and renewal amidst hardship.
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Froun, Lebanon – Principal Abbas Makki of a local school is gearing up for the return of students in Froun, a village in southern Lebanon that has tragically become a shelter for displaced people following recent conflicts. The village landscape, marred by the remnants of buildings destroyed in Israeli airstrikes, underscores the ongoing challenges faced by residents. Despite the grim surroundings, Makki is determined to facilitate education while providing refuge to those in need.
“Our area has been devastated,” Makki stated, reflecting on the toll the conflict has taken on the community. The school, which reopened immediately after a truce was declared in June, will once again welcome students while continuing to serve as a sanctuary for displaced individuals seeking safety. Makki emphasized the importance of both education and humanitarian support in these trying times.
The recent escalation of conflict reached new heights in March when Hezbollah’s response to Israeli and U.S. military actions led to significant hostilities. The situation has resulted in the displacement of over one million Lebanese, predominantly from southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley, and the southern suburbs of Beirut. Amid these developments, U.S.-brokered negotiations began in April, transitioning into a framework agreement that envisioned the withdrawal of Israeli troops and the disarmament of Hezbollah.
Froun, situated approximately two hours south of Beirut, was classified as a pilot zone in this agreement, even though local residents contend that Israel had never fully controlled the area. Following the announcement of the framework, many who had fled returned only to confront the harsh reality of their devastated homes. Some, like Soujoud Ramadan, now operate small markets at the school entrance to serve the community, showcasing resilience as they adapt to their new circumstances.
As the academic year approaches, the Lebanese government has set a goal to restore essential services in Froun by September 15. While some displaced individuals have secured alternative housing and returned to their homes, persistent Israeli airstrikes threaten this progress, with recent assaults resulting in tragic civilian casualties. Currently, countless citizens remain displaced, while educational expert Maysoun Chehab from UNESCO warns that the limited dual-functionality of schools as shelters disrupts the learning environment.
Lebanon’s Education Minister, Rima Karami, has asserted the commitment to ensuring all students have access to educational facilities, with a plan to support displaced individuals sheltering in schools until suitable alternatives can be arranged. In communities like Srifa and Bourj Qalaway, steps are being taken to relocate displaced individuals and provide prefabricated classrooms where needed to maintain educational continuity.
As Makki states, the establishment of prefabricated housing for displaced families will be crucial for resuming educational activities without compromising the dignity of those affected. The challenges, however, are steep. Experts underscore the urgency of rehabilitating educational infrastructure in the wake of widespread destruction, with over 340 schools having sustained damage amid ongoing conflicts.
As Lebanon seeks to open its schools under strained conditions, the immediate goal is to provide a safe learning space for children while safeguarding educational integrity. With a generation’s future at stake, the resilience of educators and communities remains a cornerstone for rebuilding hope and fostering social cohesion amidst adversity.
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