Why has the Palestinian Authority slashed public schooling hours?

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The Palestinian Authority has reduced public schooling hours due to a severe budget shortfall.

The Palestinian Authority has cut public school operating hours from five days a week to three across the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territory. This reduction is a direct consequence of a deepening budget deficit, which has led to a significant decrease in teacher salaries and overall school capacity. Approximately 630,000 students are affected by these changes, which are reshaping their educational future.
Funding Crisis Driven by Withheld Revenues and Economic Strain

The primary driver of the budget shortfall is Israel's decision to withhold customs tax revenues collected on behalf of the Palestinian Authority, a measure implemented following the escalation of the war in Gaza in October 2023. Compounding this financial strain, the West Bank's economy has also suffered from a halt in work permits for Palestinians seeking employment in Israel and increased restrictions on movement, such as the proliferation of checkpoints.
Reduced Teacher Salaries and School Capacity

In response to the fiscal crisis, the Palestinian Authority has been compelled to cut teachers' salaries to 60 percent of their usual amount. This reduction in pay, coupled with the shortened school week, means that public schools are now operating at less than two-thirds of their previous capacity. This situation has led some teachers to seek alternative employment, while some students have begun working to support their families.
Impact on Student Learning and Future Prospects

The reduction in schooling hours has had a tangible impact on students' academic performance and future outlook. Headmistress Aisha Khatib noted a decline in the quality of education, stating that students are not receiving sufficient instruction to become properly educated adults. Concerns are particularly high for younger students, with fears of a lack of a solid foundation in basic literacy and numeracy. The disruption has also been linked to eroded attention spans and discipline among pupils.
Systemic Emergency Declared by UNRWA

The situation is described as a "systemic emergency" by the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), which provides education to around 48,000 students in West Bank refugee camps. UNRWA has reported a significant drop in Arabic and mathematics proficiency, exacerbated by the budget crisis, Israeli military actions, and the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. The agency itself is considering a shorter school week due to its own funding challenges, following the suspension of contributions by key donor countries.

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Why has the Palestinian Authority slashed public schooling hours?

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