Israeli Parliament Approves Nearly 250 Million Shekels for Ultra-Orthodox Education Funding

The Knesset Finance Committee approved budget transfers totaling approximately 250 million shekels on Tuesday, aimed at addressing long-standing structural gaps in the ultra-Orthodox education system. After an extensive discussion, the committee allocated funds to several core welfare and educational areas within the Haredi sector.

A key element of the funding package is a significant budget increase for ultra-Orthodox kindergarten teachers, who will now receive full compensation based on their professional seniority for the first time. Additional funds were designated for student transportation services in the main Haredi education networks, "HaHinuch HaAtzmai" and "Bnei Yosef," as well as subsidies for after-school programs in unofficial and exempt institutions.

The budget also includes resources for Jewish cultural activities, therapeutic and educational support for at-risk and dropout youth, subsidies for teacher training in seminaries, and other provisions to strengthen various educational institutions. Moshe Gafni, chairman of the Degel HaTorah party, praised the approval, emphasizing the importance of continuing to support the Haredi education system despite current challenges. He thanked all involved in advancing the initiative and pledged to persist in securing full rights and resources for the sector.