Summer University for Youth, Tel Aviv University

Vision

The vision of the project is to improve accessibility to higher education for disadvantaged groups within Israeli society, thereby creating opportunities for social mobility. This initiative seeks to nurture a distinguished group of students who are the first in their families to pursue higher education, empowering them to succeed. Additionally, the program aims to foster connections between diverse sectors of Israeli society by encouraging joint studies on campus, promoting a sense of unity and collaboration across different communities.

Activity

This program brings together around 50 outstanding students from remote areas, who have completed the 10th and 11th grades, for the summer semester at Tel Aviv University. The program is proud to include a diverse population of participants, encompassing secular and religious Jewish students, Arab society, new immigrants, and youth from geographically peripheral communities such as: Tirat Carmel, Beit Shemesh, Dimona, Afula and Sderot. This diversity enriches the learning environment, fostering mutual respect, collaboration, and understanding among students from different cultural and social backgrounds. The program ensures that every participant, regardless of their origin, has the opportunity to access higher education and achieve their academic goals. Identified with the help of high school principals in Israel’s social and geographic peripheries, they are recognized as students with high academic potential and reflect the diversity of Israeli society.

The students will earn academic credits that will count toward their future university studies, as well as receive recognition for some of their matriculation exams.

Participants engage in two to three challenging academic courses in fields such as economics, sociology, anthropology, and political science.

Beyond academics, the Summer Youth University aims to introduce participants to the full university experience and the vibrant life at Tel Aviv University. Students enjoy scientific tours of the university’s research labs, as well as visits to its unique zoological and botanical gardens. They also have access to the university’s libraries, sports facilities, and swimming pools. Additionally, they explore museums, special exhibitions, theaters, and industrial plants in the region.

noar.tau.ac.il/summer-university

Summer University for Youth program was an enjoyable experience that allowed me to explore many areas of interest and meet people from different places around the country, which helped me expand my circle of friends. Overall, I really enjoyed my experience at the university and the learning process.

- Adi from Sderot, Summer 2024

Noa Ashbel

Noa Ashbel is the project manager of the Excellence Center for Youth at Tel Aviv University. Since joining the team, a year and a half ago, Noa has quickly become an invaluable member, successfully managing a range of educational projects and demonstrating exceptional professionalism and skill.

In her role, Noa coordinates multiple academic programs designed for youth from Israel’s social periphery, ensuring the programs’ smooth operation while fostering an environment of growth and opportunity. She is deeply committed to supporting the students, many of whom are the first generation in their families to attend university, and consistently strives to make a meaningful impact on their educational journeys.

Before joining Tel Aviv University, Noa worked in various roles that showcased her strong leadership, organizational abilities, and passion for education. Her previous experience includes serving in the municipality of Jerusalem’s youth department and managing educational and community projects. Noa also served as an operational specialist in the Israeli Navy, where she supported complex administrative and organizational processes.

With her diverse experience and unwavering dedication, Noa continues to lead with excellence and drive, making a significant impact on both the students and the educational programs she manages.

Activity Reports