'Special events'Technion centenary marked in Australia

Analyst to discuss ‘heroic’ Israel

The two evening programs will bring together prominent Israeli academics, analysts, and artists to highlight the university's remarkable achievements.

The Technion in Haifa is 100 years old this year.
The Technion in Haifa is 100 years old this year.

Technion – Israel Institute of Technology will commemorate its centenary next week with special events in Sydney and Melbourne.

The two evening programs will bring together prominent Israeli academics, analysts, and artists to highlight the university’s remarkable achievements.

The events promise a comprehensive exploration of the Technion’s impact.

Distinguished Professor Moti Segev will explore the institution’s historic contributions that have established Israel as a technological powerhouse.

Professor Wayne Kaplan, vice-president for external relations and resource development, will present insights into cutting-edge developments, including a pioneering AI and medicine laboratory developed in collaboration with Rambam Hospital.

A unique artistic component will add depth to the proceedings. Archibald Prize finalist Avi Vofsi, a Melbourne-born artist who made aliyah, will present a special artwork and share his personal journey and artistic perspective.

In addition, a Technion graduate who finished her studies in June this year will share her story from the last year at the Technion.

Olympian Nova Peris will deliver the acknowledgement of country.

Prominent Israeli analyst David M. Weinberg will serve as the keynote speaker, offering a nuanced view of Israel’s current challenges and future potential.

Despite acknowledging the difficulties of the past year, Weinberg remains optimistic about Israel’s long-term prospects.

“Israeli society is heroic, determined and resilient,” he said.

While Weinberg anticipates significant challenges, he believes in Israel’s ultimate success.

He confidently predicts that “100 years from now, Israel will be a thriving, productive, world-renowned country – the linchpin of prosperity for the entire Middle East and an anchor of security for the Western world.”

However, Weinberg does not shy away from expressing concern about international support.

He notes a “deep disappointment” with what he perceives as insufficient backing from Western governments, specifically mentioning Australia, Canada and Britain.

Weinberg warns of significant challenges in the short term.

“Over the next 10 years, we have a long series of military struggle ahead of us. It’s clear to me that after Hamas, the next intense military conflict is with Iran,” he warns, describing Iran as “the guiding force behind hegemonic March of radical Islamism in the region”.

The Technion centenary events will take place in Melbourne on Tuesday, December 3, and in Sydney on Wednesday, December 4. Weinberg will also make synagogue appearances in Melbourne on November 30 and in Sydney on December 7.

Tickets/info: austechnion.com

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