Israel’s dividend for investing in education

In mid May, 16 Australians made their way to Tel Aviv for the annual board of governors meetings for Tel Aviv University (TAU). The meetings and presentations are open to governors and their guests.

Despite the Houthis sending over missiles and two red alerts during the early hours of the two consecutive days, the group was amazed at how alive Tel Aviv was.

There were the usual crowds along the beach and boisterous and loud activity wherever one went. This positive affirmation of life really set the scene for the high quality presentations and meetings we experienced.

The time I was at the Tel Aviv Hilton coincided with a group from an Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council (AIJAC) mission of over 30 people, who were provided with an amazing tour to show them how Israel suffered from the impact of October 7 and how they have responded. I note that several perceptive articles have been run in The Australian as a result of this.

A highlight of the functions was dinner at the Jerusalem home of the President of Israel, Isaac Herzog. This sent the message to me that Israel regards the university sector as critical and that support from abroad drives the sector.