Israeli Council and Dell Foundation Launch $50 Million Scholarship Program for Underrepresented Youth
The Council for Higher Education in Israel and the Michael and Susan Dell Foundation have announced a new scholarship program worth 170 million shekels (approximately $50 million) aimed at young people from underrepresented populations in higher education. The foundation will invest 85 million shekels, matched by 85 million from the Council's Planning and Budgeting Committee. The scholarships will fully cover tuition fees for preparatory programs and degrees, as well as living stipends.
The "Tech Leaders" program will provide scholarships to 300 students per cycle, supporting up to 1,500 students over the next five years. Recipients will receive full funding for preparatory courses and degrees in STEM fields, living allowances, a computer, academic and personal mentoring, career development, and industry connections. The program includes pre-academic and sometimes pre-preparatory courses, aiming to integrate graduates into Israel's high-tech sector. The Dell Foundation will accompany students throughout their academic journey.
Target groups include graduates of Haredi education, the Arab community, Ethiopian Israelis, and youth from social peripheries. The program seeks to identify talented candidates early through a multi-stage process and support them through necessary academic preparations. Preparatory programs will be offered at the Technion, Hebrew University, Ben-Gurion University, and Bar-Ilan University, while degrees can be pursued at the University of Haifa, Ariel University, Azrieli College in Jerusalem, and Sami Shamoon College in Ashdod. The selection of institutions is ongoing.
The Dell Foundation's scholarship program, active since 2004, operates globally in countries including the US, India, South Africa, and Kenya, having supported 25,000 students to date with over $10 billion invested in education, health, and social mobility. Tali Barash-Busikala, director of the Dell Foundation in Israel, emphasized the program's goal to identify talent early and ease access to engineering and science fields. Prof. Ami Moyal, Chair of the Council's Planning and Budgeting Committee, highlighted the responsibility to ensure every young person can realize their potential. Dr. Maya Lugasi Ben Hamo, CEO of the Council, noted the need for tailored solutions to overcome barriers faced by diverse populations in higher education.
