Claudia Harel

Founder and Administrative Director

University of Haifa for Youth

A Young Scientists Hub that exposes young pupils from the full spectrum of Israeli society to the arts and sciences – and sparks their interest in higher education. We motivate pupils to fulfill their academic potential, help reduce economic disparities and strengthen Israel society.

SHORT BIO

I earned my MA in Leadership and Policy in Education and an MBA from the University of Haifa in 2012. I have years of experience managing academic entities through my role as the administrative director of the prestigious Edmond J. Safra Center for Brain and Learning Disabilities Research.

When I took on the task of establishing the unit, I did it all with great commitment, passion and with the understanding that this was a position filled with an important social mission and of great significance to the university and society.

Since the inauguration of the unit in April 2022, thousands of teens have been involved in our enrichment programs and about a hundred in full degree programs; Etgar, a prestigious undergraduate program for high school seniors studying computer science; and Kodkod, an intensive mathematics program for undergraduates.

FUNDRAISING NEEDS

Early exposure to a positive academic experience will help our youth explore their interests, develop a sense of belonging in higher education and lay the groundwork for future success.

The Hub is a place for growth for youth and students alike.  We employ outstanding graduate students in our programs as lecturers and instructors.

Access to high-quality educational academic experiences combined with fun social activities helps pupils experience learning in a new and meaningful way. The Hub allows pupils from Haifa and periphery communities to broaden their horizons in a safe and nurturing environment.  However, not all have the means to pay. A “Culture and Science Day” costs $600 for a group of 20 participants. A series of meetings costs much more.  

I invite you to partner with us in promoting higher education, reducing inequalities and strengthening Israeli society by supporting schools, associations, municipalities and any educational entity that wishes to reach us without the ability to finance the programs.

We need support for funding full degree scholarships for academic studies ($15,000), subsidy for “Culture and Science Day” a program that is a series of meetings ($15,500); developing new programs in the field of neuroscience, human biology, art and entrepreneurship (14,000$ each).

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