LONDON: The UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees is appealing for $15.5 million for its emergency response in Lebanon’s Ein El Hilweh Refugee camp following armed clashes in August. 

Four days of fighting between Palestinian armed groups in the camp killed 13 people and injured more than 60. Thousands were forced to escape their damaged or destroyed homes. 

Armed militants have occupied and significantly damaged all eight UNRWA schools, which educate 5,900 children. 

“None of the eight UNRWA schools will be available for the children at the beginning of the new academic year,” Dorothee Klaus, director of UNRWA affairs in Lebanon, said.

“Damages have been significant and the conflict in the camp is unresolved. With fighters continuing to occupy UNRWA schools, they remain too insecure and off-limits for school children,” Klaud added. 

This appeal aims to protect the education of children who must return to school in October. UNRWA is setting up alternate schooling places outside of the camp, which will necessitate the upgrading and adjustment of facilities, as well as the provision of necessary learning and psycho-social support.

The financial aid will also include providing emergency cash assistance to families who have lost their homes as a result of the violence, as well as repairs and maintenance of important public infrastructure.