JEWISH ZIONIST EDUCATION AND IDENTITY 4 million Jews around the world are under the age of 25! Their Jewish future is at stake. The Challenge In Israel Lack of interest in Jewish traditions Misconceptions regarding Diaspora Jewry Jewish curriculum cutbacks in schools In World Jewish Communities Over 50% of young Jews receive no Jewish education whatsoever High assimilation rates Declining involvement in the organized Jewish community Professional Development Pre-service and in-service training programs (both in Israel and in local communities) are designed to produce skilled, committed professionals to staff Jewish schools, youth organizations, summer camps etc. in the Diaspora. Senior Educators Program Programs for young Israelis (Nitzanim, Gahelet, Cadets Program for the Jewish people) The Institute for Youth Leaders from Abroad ('Machon') (12,000 graduates since 1948) In-service training programs in Israel for formal and informal educators at all levels (15,000 participants in 2001) Training in Israel Training in local communities by Israeli experts Distance learning courses Initiatives in the FSU Hundreds of thousands of people in the FSU participate each year in a wide array of Jewish Agency programs designed to teach about Israel, Judaism and the Jewish people. Major programs include: Ulpan Hebrew language classes Jewish Identity project that provides basic Jewish literacy to those eligible for aliyah Youth clubs; summer and winter camps for youngsters and students Israel programs Training formal and informal educators for all educational frameworks Programs in conjunction with institutions of higher education to train communal leadership Educational Shlichim (Emissaries) The Jewish Agency provides world Jewish communities with experienced Israeli emissaries in over 30 countries. In addition, some 1,200 Israeli counselors help staff Jewish summer camps around the world every year. Through Zionist seminars- Achai v'Re'ei teams of young Israelis provide instruction on Zionism and Israel in Jewish schools. Specialists in formal and informal education are sent to Jewish communities on an ad hoc basis. Other Initiatives Curriculum development Educational materials Long-distance learning State-of-the-art high-tech on-line learning tools to serve as an educational bridge between Israel and overseas Jewish communities Special programs in specific countries including Israel Month in North America, Alon Teacher Training Program in Latin America, Formal Education Task Force in South Africa Israel Experience Israel Experience programs remain one of the most effective ways of strengthening and maintaining the Jewish identity of young Jews from around the world: 3,000 youth on birthright programs, short-term programs; and long-term programs. Over the past two years, however, security concerns in Israel have led to a 60-70% reduction in program participation worldwide. Registration for long-term programs has remained relatively stable. continue on next page previous page Updated January 29,2003