Support Ultra-Orthodox Students

Israel’s ultra-Orthodox community lives largely segregated from the rest of Israeli society. Ultra-Orthodox schools (Yeshivas and seminaries) focus on Torah studies, and students between the ages of 13 and 17 lack education in math, science, English, and spoken Hebrew. 

It is expected that the ultra-Orthodox community will grow from 13% of Israel’s population currently to 20% by 2040. It is therefore crucial to offer this community the opportunity to integrate fully into the workforce. This will not only strengthen the community itself, but will benefit Israeli society as a whole. As members of different cultures study and work together, stereotypes are broken down and prejudice decreases. The skills and talents that the ultra-Orthodox community have to share will create new opportunities and an enhanced workforce for all. Higher education and academic skills are the key to this process.

The Open University welcomes both the largest and fastest growing community of ultra-Orthodox students, with over 2,700 enrolled – more than any other Israeli university. Enrollment boasts an equal number of  men and women, with 30% studying STEM fields. Our goal is to double the ultra-Orthodox enrollment to 5,000 students by 2027, which will constitute 10% of our student body. 

The OUI’s open admissions policy and model of individualized distance learning makes us the most natural choice for students from this sector of the population. Students can choose the time and location of their studies and our flexible scheduling allows for maximum convenience and freedom of choice. In this way, the OUI provides a uniquely practical framework in which ultra-Orthodox students can pursue higher education. 

The OUI offers a dedicated program of support, including extra guidance and mentoring from counselors who are solely focused on ultra-Orthodox students. Partnerships with different entities in ultra-Orthodox society to advance structured programs, such as courses within seminaries and Yeshivas as part of the curriculum add to the attraction of our studies. Special emphasis is also placed on assisting graduates in finding suitable employment after completing their studies.

Ultra-Orthodox students fill educational gaps by studying core courses and learning Hebrew and English. The ultimate prize, of course is a university degree, but along the way, the encounter with students and faculty from other sectors of Israeli society is enriching for all. As knowledge is gained, barriers and misconceptions are dissolved. With their newly acquired skills, students from the ultra-Orthodox community have a direct and meaningful impact on their families, their society, and their country. 

Thank you for considering supporting this important cause.