Israeli Hesder Yeshivas See 7% Rise in New Student Enrollment for 2023-24

The Association of Hesder Yeshivas in Israel has reported a significant increase in new student enrollment for the academic year 5787 (2023-24), continuing a multi-year upward trend. This year, 2,987 new students began their first-year studies, marking a 7% rise compared to last year’s 2,801 and nearly reaching the 3,000-student milestone for the first time. Compared to the three-year average from 5784 to 5786, the increase is approximately 13%, with an additional 368 new students joining. The growth spans all Hesder tracks, including the classic program, combined tracks, and students from abroad.

The association attributes this surge partly to the recent "Iron Swords" military operation and the prominent role Hesder students and graduates have played in both regular and reserve IDF combat units. The participation of these students in combat has reinforced among young people the value of combining extended Torah study with meaningful military service. Uri Pinsky, CEO of the Association of Hesder Yeshivas, emphasized that this is a deep, ongoing trend rather than a one-time event, reflecting broad recognition among students, parents, and educators of the program’s importance.

Pinsky highlighted that 80-85% of Hesder students serve in combat roles, a uniquely high rate that maximizes the use of those eligible for combat service. He noted that the current rise in student numbers will translate into a significant increase in combat soldiers in the IDF in coming years, benefiting the military and the nation. Pinsky also described visiting five Hesder yeshivas at the start of the Elul study period, observing overcrowding and the need to expand learning spaces due to the influx of new students.

In closing, Pinsky reflected on attending the funeral of Yehuda Katz, a Hesder student from Kerem B'Yavneh yeshiva who was declared missing in action 44 years ago. Katz exemplified the close bond between Torah study and military service that defines the Hesder community, which continues to produce generations of dedicated scholars and soldiers.