Genocide and deprivation: Healthcare, utilities, and economic strain for displaced University College of Applied Sciences staff post-october 7

Abeer Barakat; Aya KH El Mashharawi; Basuki Supartono

doi:10.56744/irchum.v3i2.63

Authors

Abeer Z. Alhossary University College of Applied Sciences
Aya KH El Mashharawi University College of Applied Sciences
Basuki Supartono Universitas Pembangunan Nasional Veteran Jakarta

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56744/irchum.v3i2.63

Keywords:

University College of Applied Sciences, Gaza Genocide, Healthcare disruption, Academic disruption, October 7

Abstract

The October 7, 2023, Gaza genocide has caused a severe humanitarian crisis, disrupting healthcare, essential services, and economic stability for academic and administrative staff at the University College of Applied Sciences (UCAS). A quantitative survey was conducted involving 192 displaced UCAS staff to assess the impact of displacement, revealing significant hardships: 58% lack adequate healthcare access and face critical medication shortages due to Gaza’s damaged healthcare infrastructure. Utility disruptions are widespread, with 59% struggling to secure clean water and 55% facing inconsistent or no electricity, hampering their ability to work remotely. Additionally, 82% serve as primary family providers, yet 42% report a total loss of income. The collapse of income sources and lack of external job opportunities have intensified the financial strain on UCAS staff, threatening their professional and personal responsibilities. These findings underscore the urgent need for international intervention to restore Gaza's healthcare, utilities, and financial stability. Humanitarian efforts are crucial to support Gaza’s educational institutions and strengthen the resilience of displaced educators during this ongoing conflict.

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Author Biographies

Abeer Z. Alhossary, University College of Applied Sciences

Abeer Z. Barakat (Alhossary) is affiliated with the University College of Applied Sciences (UCAS) in Gaza and has a strong academic background in linguistics and social sciences. Her research primarily focuses on the sociopolitical dynamics within Gaza and the broader region, often using critical discourse analysis to investigate how language influences and reflects social issues. She is recognized for her scholarly contributions, including publications and involvement in research that addresses the intersection of language, media, and sociopolitical contexts, especially in relation to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Her work is particularly valuable in examining media narratives and the representation of conflicts, contributing significant insights to the study of linguistics and discourse within challenging geopolitical environments.
Aya KH El Mashharawi, University College of Applied Sciences

Aya KH El Mashharawi is a Palestinian academic from Gaza, currently involved in both university-level lecturing and ongoing research. Her work emphasizes the intersection of education and digital tools, such as her research on using Socrative as a formative assessment tool in higher education settings. She has contributed valuable insights into students' perceptions of digital learning both during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, showcasing her commitment to educational innovation and adaptability. El Mashharawi has also been engaged in international projects that aim to enhance Palestinian higher education. Her academic journey has been profoundly impacted by the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has disrupted her teaching and research activities.
Basuki Supartono, Universitas Pembangunan Nasional Veteran Jakarta

Prof. Dr. Basuki Supartono is a distinguished academic and medical professional, currently serving at Universitas Pembangunan Nasional Veteran Jakarta (UPNVJ) in Indonesia. In addition to his work in sports medicine, disaster medicine, and regenerative medicine—specifically, stem cell and tissue engineering research—Prof. Supartono is renowned for his orthopaedics expertise. He has contributed extensively to the fields of clinical medicine and public health, with publications covering diverse topics, including ergonomics, healthcare protocols during pandemics, and innovative medical approaches in low-resource settings. Prof. Supartono's academic influence is reflected in his active participation in both national and international medical communities.

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