International Jewish Educators Conference to Convene in Jerusalem

Approximately 250 educators, administrators, and leaders from Jewish educational institutions and communities worldwide will gather in Israel for the "International Jewish Educator Conference." The event, organized by the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and the Fight Against Antisemitism in cooperation with the Prime Minister's Office, will take place from October 12-15, 2026. Participants will come from countries including the United States, France, Argentina, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Mexico, Russia, and Ukraine. An additional 100 Israeli educators and administrators will join through a partnership with the Ministry of Education.

The conference will open on October 12 with a gala evening at the Jerusalem Theatre, attended by President Yitzhak Herzog and Minister of Diaspora Affairs and the Fight Against Antisemitism Amichai Chikli. The event will feature performances by Avitar Banai and clarinetist Hilik Frank, as well as a presentation by Miriam Peretz. Educators from abroad will share their experiences and challenges in fostering Jewish education within their communities. During the gala, eight outstanding Jewish educators from around the globe will receive the first-ever "International Jewish Educator Award" for their contributions to strengthening Jewish identity and the connection to Israel.

October 13 will feature a global Beit Midrash day at the Ramada Hotel in Jerusalem, including plenary sessions, panels, lectures, and workshops focused on current challenges in Jewish schools and communities. Participants will share knowledge and professional tools, concluding with a tour of the City of David. Following the conference, participants will engage in group work to develop practical action plans for their institutions. The week will also include educational tours across Israel, visiting the South, the Gaza envelope, and Jerusalem, to expose educators to innovative Israeli educational models, Jewish heritage, Zionist endeavors, and communities impacted by the events of October 7.

Avi Cohen-Scali, Director General of the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and the Fight Against Antisemitism, emphasized the critical role of Jewish educators in shaping the next generation's Jewish identity and connection to Israel. He stated that the ministry is committed to providing educational tools and building a global network of educators. The ministry, through UnitEd, supports over 850 Jewish schools in more than 50 countries, aiming to strengthen Jewish identity, the connection of youth to Israel, and their involvement in local Jewish communities. UnitEd offers services such as professional development, leadership training, innovative curriculum development, and peer networking.