Wonderful News for Al Tafawk 24th July 2026
Today brings some wonderful news for the older students of Jenin Refugee Camp.
Around 150 girls and boys have successfully passed the exams needed to apply for courses at the Arab American University. This is an extraordinary achievement.
Just 18 months ago, these students were forced to leave their homes in the camp, taking little or nothing with them. Since then, they have been living wherever they could find shelter. Without access to schools, classrooms or textbooks, they have continued their education through printed materials, some online work and remarkable determination.
Students follow either a scientific or a literary stream, allowing them to apply for different university courses, and admission requires strong exam results. This year, the highest mark in the entire West Bank was achieved by one of these students - an incredible accomplishment given the challenges they have faced.
Against every obstacle, these young people have shown resilience, commitment and an unwavering belief in their future.
Sadly, the IDF issued notices yesterday banning any public celebrations of the students' achievements. However, the attached videos capture the families' quiet determination to celebrate this hard - earned success together. Perhaps only about 20 of these students will in reality be able to take up a place, as scholarships are the only way for these young people to be able to afford to attend. But that doesn’t diminish their sense of achievement and excitement today.
Mona and her mother are especially proud. Mona's mother taught at the UN girls' school in the camp and taught many of these students. In addition, some of them were among the very first children to attend Al Tafawk Kindergarten when it opened in 2011. Together, mother and daughter have played a part in these students' education, making today's achievements especially meaningful.
Today is a day to celebrate perseverance, success and hope.
