A new survey by the Israeli Student Union reveals the severe academic and emotional challenges facing Israeli students as the country battles Iran in the ongoing Operation Roaring Lion.
Conducted among 1,220 respondents, including 240 reserve soldiers, the poll highlights significant disruptions to students' ability to study, attend exams, and return to full academic routines after the war.
According to the survey, 82% of students report they are unable to focus on their studies, with just 6% claiming they can study to a significant degree. Students are feeling the weight of both academic and emotional burdens, with 64% noting difficulties concentrating, 61% feeling fatigued and drained, and 55% experiencing anxiety and stress.
For many, the physical environment was also noted as contributing to the challenge, with 35% pointing to a lack of quiet, comfortable study spaces.
The emotional toll is compounded by the security situation, with 59% of respondents stating they were unable to attend scheduled exams due to the ongoing war. The poll suggests that the academic year may face major setbacks, with many students unable to keep up with their coursework.
Looking ahead, 42% of students fear the loss of academic performance and grades, while 30% are concerned that professors may not take the security situation into account. Another 22% are worried that the war could delay their graduation or professional training. These concerns are particularly pronounced among reserve soldiers, with 66% reporting missed exams during the war, highlighting the impact of reserve service on their academic progress.
Support for hybrid learning, clear communication
In light of these challenges, 61% of students are concerned about physically returning to campus, citing security risks and difficulties in commuting. Consequently, 75% of respondents have expressed that hybrid learning options, such as online classes or recorded lectures, are particularly critical in the first few weeks of the semester and are essential for a safe return to studies.
The survey also found that 41% of students fear a mental struggle in transitioning back to full-time academic routines after the conflict, while 32% worry about an overwhelming accumulation of coursework if the semester is delayed.
Additionally, students have expressed concerns about the lack of clear communication from academic institutions, with 37% reporting that their universities have not provided adequate guidance regarding their study plans during the war.
The Israeli Student Union has called on universities to adapt to the current situation, ensuring that students' rights are preserved and that appropriate academic accommodations are provided. They also emphasized the importance of transparent communication from educational institutions to alleviate students' anxieties.
The survey also shed light on the unique struggles faced by reserve soldiers and their families. Many reserve soldiers and their spouses (47%) had to leave their homes due to security concerns, with some citing a lack of proper protection as the primary reason.
Sivan Korin, chairperson of the Israeli Students Union, emphasized that the effects of the war are felt deeply by the student community.
"The consequences of the war are clearly felt among the student community," said Korin. "Many were unable to take exams, and the mental strain is felt in their study routine and lives. Alongside this, a large portion of students are currently on the front lines in the reserves, volunteering and contributing to the daily effort to maintain a routine of life. Therefore, the academic system must also continue to adapt itself to this reality."
"The Israeli Student Union will continue to work with institutions of higher education and all relevant parties to ensure that students' rights are preserved and remain a top priority," Korin concluded. "This, alongside specific treatment in cases where there is no certainty or sufficient response for students."