ISRAEL AT WAR – DAY 482
Australian Friends of the Hebrew University president Michael Dunkel has welcomed a new initiative by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem to provide free study to hostages released from Gaza.
The university has announced full scholarships for a three-year academic degree in any field of study to all released hostages, along with a dedicated fund to ensure children who were held hostage can access higher education in the future.
It complements a range of efforts undertaken by the university since October 7, 2023 to assist reservist students and their families, students displaced from their homes, and prospective students who served as combat soldiers.
Beyond tuition funding, the initiative provides an extensive support framework, encompassing personalised academic guidance, psychological assistance and career counselling workshops. Hebrew University rector Professor Tamir Shefer stated, “We are committed to standing by all who experienced the horrors of October 7 and the prolonged captivity under Hamas. It is our responsibility to support them in every way possible.
“We aim to help them rebuild a hopeful future and provide a solid anchor in their long rehabilitation journey. As Israel’s leading academic institution, we believe in the transformative power of higher education and its potential to drive personal and societal change. This initiative reflects our deep ethical and social commitment.”
Dunkel said, “During the 2024 board of governors meeting, the Hebrew University arranged for delegates to travel to the south to see firsthand the devastation caused by the Hamas invasion on October 7.
“We have noted with great pride all that the university has done since October 7 for Israelis affected by the invasion and this latest announcement is one which we all appreciate and welcome as freed hostages and their families begin to adjust to life post-captivity.”
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