Drawing on accumulated experience, the Diversity Unit seeks to establish and develop a university-wide framework for equipping all students with essential academic skills. Particular focus is given to the unique needs and priorities of diverse, underrepresented student populations. This initiative aims to address academic gaps, enhance student success, and create an inclusive learning environment.
Students from diverse backgrounds – including first-generation students, students from Israel’s social and economic peripheries, graduates of ultra-Orthodox education, new immigrants, Arab students, Ethiopian-Israeli students, students with disabilities, and more – often face unique challenges when integrating into higher education. Many must navigate language barriers, gaps in core academic knowledge, limited self-confidence, and unfamiliarity with academic culture, requiring additional effort to bridge disparities and develop essential skills.
Recognizing these challenges, the Hebrew University is committed to providing the necessary infrastructure and support to help students bridge gaps, gain essential academic skills, and thrive in their studies.
To achieve this, we operate across several key channels:
Students from diverse backgrounds – including first-generation students, students from Israel’s social and economic peripheries, graduates of ultra-Orthodox education, new immigrants, Arab students, Ethiopian-Israeli students, students with disabilities, and more – often face unique challenges when integrating into higher education. Many must navigate language barriers, gaps in core academic knowledge, limited self-confidence, and unfamiliarity with academic culture, requiring additional effort to bridge disparities and develop essential skills.
Recognizing these challenges, the Hebrew University is committed to providing the necessary infrastructure and support to help students bridge gaps, gain essential academic skills, and thrive in their studies.
To achieve this, we operate across several key channels:
- Identifying Barriers and Needs – Mapping the unique challenges faced by diverse student populations at every stage of their academic journey.
- Assessing Existing Resources – Evaluating university support systems and best practices from institutions in Israel and abroad to enhance academic skill development and help bridge gaps.
- Measuring Impact & Optimizing Support – Assessing the effectiveness of current initiatives and designing an optimal framework for academic success.
- Enhancing Existing Programs & Developing New Initiatives – Strengthening academic support through a dedicated university-wide Academic Skills Center.
Pilot Program (2023–2025)
As part of its commitment to diversity and a more inclusive academic faculty, the Diversity Unit offers the following programs:
Excellence program for outstanding researchers from underrepresented, diverse populations