98% of Peripheral Israeli Youth Complete 12 Years of School in Long-Term Support Program
The Israeli nonprofit organization Pethach Lev released data on its long-term youth support initiative, Program 7, aimed at teenagers from socially and geographically peripheral areas. The 2026 report shows that 98% of participants completed 12 years of schooling, 76% earned a full matriculation certificate, and 98% enlisted in the Israel Defense Forces or national service. After military or national service, 85% of participants integrated into the workforce, with 40% employed in high-tech or management roles, and 87% enrolled in academic or vocational studies.
Program 7, operated by Pethach Lev's educational branch "Touching the Horizon," has been active since 2004. It was developed in collaboration with Tel Aviv University and authored by the late Professor Yossi Katan. The program targets approximately 1,550 youths from 17 communities across Israel, providing continuous guidance over about seven years. This support spans three phases: from 10th grade through high school graduation, during military or national service, and the year following discharge.
Participants receive weekly five-hour sessions integrated into their school schedule, led by professional mentors with therapeutic qualifications. The program focuses on students facing academic, emotional, or social challenges, including learning disabilities and complex socioeconomic backgrounds. It is approved by the Ministry of Education's green track and coordinated with the IDF's Matav unit.
Pethach Lev CEO Eli Cohen emphasized the importance of sustained personal support, stating, "When we do not give up on youth and provide continuous professional guidance, the starting point does not have to determine the outcome." He highlighted that combating intergenerational poverty requires long-term investment to equip young people with tools to break the cycle. Cohen called on the Israeli government to expand continuous support models to enable all youth to realize their potential regardless of birthplace.
