The Israeli government approved on Wednesday an initiative proposed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to invest NIS 100 million in Jewish education in North American diaspora communities.
The national plan will focus on increasing the enrollment of students in Jewish educational establishments.
The plan, which was drawn up by the Prime Minister’s Office in coordination with the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA), will be funded by the state.
The JFNA and other NGOs committed to raising an additional NIS 50 million for the initiative.
“The future of the Jewish people depends on our ability to ensure that future generations know their heritage, connect to their Jewish identity, and maintain their deep connection to the State of Israel, which does not stand idly by in the face of the challenges set before Jewish communities around the world – certainly in the face of rising antisemitism,” Netanyahu said in a statement.
“The plan that we approved today, in partnership with the Jewish communities in North America, is an investment in the future generation of Diaspora Jewry,” he added.
“Together we will strengthen Jewish identity, deepen the connection to Israel, and ensure that our heritage and values are passed on with pride from generation to generation.”
PM stresses shared responsibility of Diaspora Jews, Israelis for future of Jewish identity
The prime minister expressed that the national plan to strengthen Jewish education in the Jewish communities in North America is a reflection of the shared responsibility of diaspora Jews and Israelis for the “future and continuity of the Jewish people.”
He further warned of an erosion of formal Jewish education in the Diaspora and its effect on the survival of Jewish identity.
“The plan was formulated against the backdrop of rising antisemitism in the world since the Hamas terror attack on October 7, 2023, and the growing challenges faced by the Jewish communities,” the prime minister said.
“The approval of the plan is a practical expression of the State of Israel’s responsibility and commitment to Diaspora Jewry, through long-term investment in the education of the younger generation, in strengthening its Jewish identity, and in ensuring the future of the Jewish people.”
