Rising From Crisis
Although Sapir College, one of Israel's largest public colleges, located just two miles from the Gaza border, was dealt a painful blow last October 7, it is determined to continue thriving as a vital pillar driving the region's economic, social and cultural growth
Throughout September and early October 2023, Sapir College was bustling with preparations for the upcoming academic year. But when thousands of Hamas terrorists infiltrated the region on that fateful morning of Simchat Torah, the atmosphere was abruptly shattered by rockets, gunfire, and sirens that transformed the campus into a scene of chaos and war. Indeed, Sapir College found itself at the center of a devastating conflict that would change lives forever.
The profound loss felt at Sapir is palpable. Tragically, the Sapir College community lost 47 students, alumni, faculty, and staff members who were brutally murdered by Hamas terrorists and in the subsequent war. In addition, a staff member's spouse was taken hostage. More than 1,000 students are currently serving or have served in active reserve duty, with many on multiple rotations. Approximately 1,500 students and staff were forced to evacuate their homes, although most have now returned, with some still waiting for their communities to be rebuilt.
In the blink of an eye, the vibrant sounds of student life were replaced by the echoes of war and conflict, transforming Sapir into a college in a war zone. "We reached out immediately to all the students. Within days, our incredible staff mobilized, working with the Student Union to ensure that everyone was accounted for," says Sapir College President Prof. Nir Kedar.
To address the urgent needs, Sapir, in partnership with philanthropic organizations, established a Trauma Treatment & Basic Needs Fund. A significant donation of $1 million from the Jewish Federations of North America to this Fund provided students with immediate basic needs, as well as funding trauma relief for students and staff members.
The war's human impact
Danielle, a second-year student at Sapir, shared her experience: "Luckily, I wasn't home on October 7. I lived in student housing on Kibbutz Nir Oz and my place and all my belongings were destroyed, leaving me homeless. Now I live with a group of students who were evacuated from the kibbutz. Sapir's help has been crucial."
Another student, Hagar, reflected on her loss: "I lived in the Student Village in Nir Oz for over two years; it felt like home. Everything I owned, including a manuscript I planned to publish, is gone. What saddens me most is the loss of loved ones; and friends who are now hostages in Gaza."
Sapir College stands united with the families of the hostages, particularly Lishay Miran Lavi, who is the Director of Pre-Academic (Mechina) Programs at the college. Her husband, Omri, was taken hostage during the Hamas attack on Kibbutz Nahal Oz. For hours, she and her family were held at gunpoint, and Omri was taken to Gaza. Since then, Lishay has emerged as a powerful voice, tirelessly advocating for the release of Omri and the other hostages. Together with fellow families, she has engaged global leaders and speaks out passionately for their safe return. Their daughter Alma is now 3, and little Roni is only 18 months old. Their only wish is to have their Abba back home. The Sapir community supports Lishay and all of the hostage families, hoping for the safe and speedy return of Omri and all of the other hostages.
Revitalizing the region
Sapir College is the local growth engine for the Western Negev and Gaza Envelope region, driving educational, economic, cultural, and social advancement while significantly enhancing human capital. By harnessing the talents of its lecturers, students, and staff, Sapir fosters collaborative initiatives that stimulate development across multiple sectors. The college is committed to addressing critical skill shortages through the establishment of new faculties, which not only attract students but also meet the region's evolving needs.
Despite the challenges, Sapir remains dedicated to bringing young talent to the area, with ambitious plans to enhance human capital and social impact. The expansion of the campus in Sderot, featuring new buildings and beautiful green spaces, is set to transform the city into a vibrant college town. Through these initiatives, Sapir College is not just an educational institution; it is a vital catalyst for sustainable growth and community.
Looking to the future, Sapir College plans to establish two new faculties by October 2025: the Faculty of Medical Sciences and the Faculty of Advanced Technology. A partnership with Hebrew University will allow for joint degrees in pre-med and occupational therapy, while the new Faculty of Advanced Technology will offer programs in computer science, data science, and agritech.
Sapir is also working with local stakeholders to create a substantial Western Negev Research and Development Center aimed at addressing local challenges in agritech, water sciences, and renewable energy. Additionally, a new Trauma & Resilience Research Center will harness the expertise gained through years of operating under the threat of conflict.
In the wake of the events of October 7, Sapir College is expanding its Community Engagement initiatives with renewed purpose and passion. Drawing inspiration from Tulane University's model after Hurricane Katrina, Sapir is launching an enriched program, bolstered by support from Bank Hapoalim. Students will engage in a vibrant mix of courses, workshops, and hands-on fieldwork that emphasize skills training and civic collaboration. Through community projects and innovative local initiatives, they will earn academic credits while partnering with local residents to tackle pressing issues such as resilience, employment, education, and legal aid. This commitment not only empowers students but also strengthens the bonds within the community.
To support this vision, Sapir College has embarked on a thoughtful and comprehensive planning process for ongoing and future development that encompasses academic growth, campus expansion, and a detailed five-year strategic plan. Collaborating with leading consultants in relevant fields, Sapir is focused on ensuring the effectiveness of these initiatives while prioritizing academic excellence. This strategic approach aims to enhance the college's degree offerings, expand its campus, and strengthen its economic impact, further solidifying Sapir as the key growth engine for the Western Negev and Gaza Envelope region. Through these efforts, Sapir College is committed to fostering innovation and opportunity, creating a brighter future for its students, as well as for the Western Negev and Gaza Envelope region.
Looking ahead
While the Western Negev faces profound challenges in the aftermath of October 7 and the ensuing war, Sapir College is poised to play a pivotal role in the region's revitalization. As it moves forward from crisis to growth, Sapir exemplifies the resilience and determination of its community.
Through strategic investments in education, enriched academic offerings, and dynamic community engagement, Sapir College is not merely surviving but thriving – a vibrant sanctuary in the Western Negev where dreams take root and communities heal together. This vital and energetic growth is fueled by the unwavering support of faculty, staff, and the broader community, all united in a shared vision. Sapir College is transforming adversity into opportunity, crafting a tapestry of resilience and innovation that paves the way for a brighter future for the Western Negev and beyond. Here, each initiative becomes a stepping stone toward success, as Sapir continues to inspire and uplift, nurturing the potential within every individual and reinforcing the bonds that strengthen our community and region.
A beacon of hope in the heart of conflict
Sapir College, Israel's only college in the Gaza Envelope, stands just two miles from the border. Despite enduring threats and escalating security situations for over two decades, this dynamic institution has grown into one of the largest public colleges in the country, serving around 8,000 students. It is also the largest employer in the area, with a dedicated workforce of 1,300 faculty and staff.
Nearly 70% of the student body comes from Israel's southern periphery, including 15% from the Arab Bedouin community, making Sapir is a vital hub for first-generation college attendees. The Gateway to Higher Education program for Arab Bedouin students provides scholarships and academic support.
Sapir College offers 16 undergraduate and 11 graduate degree tracks, along with pre-academic and vocational programs. It is renowned for its Film School, whose graduates frequently win prestigious awards, as well as for its degree programs in Law, Social Work, and Communications. Sapir's graduates excel in the Israel Bar and CPA exams.
Through these efforts, Sapir College not only serves as an educational institution but also as a beacon of hope, resilience and growth in the heart of a challenging environment, illuminating pathways to opportunity for the communities it serves.
For more information about Sapir College, visit www.sapir.ac.il/en>>
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