President Isaac Herzog and First Lady Michal Herzog were welcomed on the Mount Carmel Campus by University President Ron Robin, Rector Gur Alroey, Vice-President & CEO Sharon Zaid and Dean of Students Batya Engel-Yeger. During the visit they met with students from the Jewish-Arab Leadership Program and toured the Lady Barbara Davis Wild Cereal Gene Bank with Prof. Assaf Distelfeld, Director of the Institute of Evolution.

In his address, President Herzog emphasized the profound significance of Israel’s return to normalcy after a time of hardship. He highlighted the University of Haifa’s unique atmosphere marked by an unparalleled sense of optimism, fostered by the distinctive social tapestry and dynamic spirit that permeates the campus. “Despite the challenging circumstances surrounding the commencement of the new academic year, our mission remains clear – to fortify and inspire academia in Israel, champion diversity, foster integration, so that every individual finds their rightful place here and on campuses throughout the country… To our dedicated female and male student reservists courageously defending this country and its borders, we extend strength and hopeful wishes for a swift and peaceful return. We anticipate their seamless reintegration into academic life supported by a dedicated framework.”