January 27, 2025 – The Hebrew University of Jerusalem announced it is offering full scholarships for a three-year academic degree—covering both Bachelor’s and Master’s programs—to all released hostages. This comprehensive program also includes establishing a dedicated fund to secure the eligibility of children held hostage by Hamas, ensuring they can access higher education at the University when they reach adulthood.

In addition to tuition funding, the initiative provides an extensive support framework, encompassing personalized academic guidance, psychological assistance, and career counseling workshops. The program is designed to serve as a cornerstone for these individuals’ return to normalcy, equipping them with the tools to achieve their personal and professional aspirations.

The University emphasizes not only the academic aspect of this initiative but also the importance of creating a warm, supportive community. This holistic approach aims to restore a sense of belonging, rebuild self-confidence, and facilitate a smoother transition back to everyday life. The initiative also sends a broader message of unity, encouraging Israeli society to extend its support to those who endured unimaginable trauma.

“We are committed to standing by all who experienced the horrors of October 7th and the prolonged captivity under Hamas,” says Prof. Tamir Shefer, Rector of the Hebrew University. As Israel’s leading academic institution, we believe in the transformative power of higher education and its potential to drive personal and societal change. This initiative reflects our deep ethical and social commitment.”

The program complements a range of efforts undertaken by Hebrew University since October 7th to assist reservist students and their families, students displaced from their homes, and prospective students who served as combat soldiers. These efforts include significant resource allocations, doubling courses, and dedicating specialized staff, underscoring the university’s unwavering commitment to bridging academic excellence with profound social responsibility.