Naqoura, home to UNIFIL’s headquarters, was heavily damaged during the recent conflict. Homes, shops, and schools were destroyed, and many families had to flee. But life is slowly returning.
Naqoura Public School reopened for the new school year, welcoming more than fifty students from Naqoura and neighboring villages. UNIFIL’s Spokesperson, Kandice Ardiel, visited the school and said, "Schools are key to communities, and strong communities are key to peace,” highlighting that seeing children back at school is a real sign of hope for the community and a step toward rebuilding resilience.
The school’s head, Mrs. Layal Youssef, described the reopening: "The students were very happy to be back and were not afraid," explaining that the school was partially damaged and most of its contents destroyed, but rapid renovations allowed classes to resume on September 15.
Students shared their relief and joy as well. One said, "I’m very, very happy to be back and to have reunited with my friends and teachers," emphasizing how returning to school has helped restore a sense of normalcy in their lives.
UNIFIL has supported the school in the past with classrooms, football and basketball courts, lab equipment, and stationery—all of which were lost during the conflict. Mrs. Youssef hopes the mission will continue its support to fully rebuild the school and provide a safe environment for learning.
While UNIFIL continues supporting local partners and communities in multiple ways, the reopening of Naqoura Public School stands out as a clear sign of recovery and hope in the south.
Listen to the full story and the latest updates about even more initiatives in our News from UNIFIL radio episode.