Shomron Regional Council Launches Elite Youth Leadership and Advocacy Program

The Shomron Regional Council, led by Head Yossi Dagan and supported by Education Minister Yoav Kisch, has announced a new educational initiative called the "Generation 5.0 Global" youth leadership and advocacy team. This program aims to train young leaders to represent Israel and the Shomron region internationally, complementing a broader educational development plan in the area. The council is investing 50 million shekels in upgrading and expanding educational institutions to meet rapid population growth, which has seen the number of schools rise from 21 to 32 over the past decade, with a 5% increase in students in just the last two years.

Recently, a new permanent building for the Ba'alei Zahav state-religious elementary school was inaugurated, costing 27 million shekels and accommodating around 500 students in 24 innovative classrooms. The new leadership program will run for 18 months and includes 16 in-depth sessions, professional tours across Israel, panels, and simulations. Participants will be divided into four core content divisions: Israel (addressing global media challenges), Diplomacy and Activism (leading public initiatives), Rhetoric and Debate (developing critical thinking and public speaking), and Digital and AI (creating AI-based content and digital influence).

The program targets socially skilled students studying English at the highest level (5 units) and offers weekly private English lessons supported by a dedicated app. Participation costs are heavily subsidized by the council, amounting to only 160 shekels per month for 15 months. Yossi Dagan emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating that the battle for Israel's truth is fought not only on the battlefield but also in media, campuses, social networks, and decision-making centers worldwide. He highlighted the program's role in preparing the next generation of Israeli advocates equipped with professional skills in rhetoric, diplomacy, AI, and English, calling it a vital Zionist mission and a source of pride for Shomron.