March 19, 2025 – In a significant initiative to tackle pressing agricultural, nutritional, and environmental challenges, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem is partnering with Clemson University in South Carolina and Sapir College in Israel.

Last week, they signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) formalizing the collaboration to harness the unique strengths of each institution to drive innovation and sustainability in agriculture.

The partnership focuses on joint research initiatives relevant to both Israel—particularly the Western Negev region—and South Carolina. It includes efforts to secure funding through collaborative grant proposals, as well as the development of an international strategic framework to enhance research and teaching capabilities. An additional goal is to assist developing countries facing similar agricultural challenges by sharing expertise and best practices.

The signing ceremony, held at Clemson University on March 11, was attended by Ambassador Nikki Haley, a distinguished alumna of Clemson University, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, and a steadfast supporter of Israel; Prof. Saul Burdman, Dean of the Hebrew University Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment; Amit Kochavi, senior advisor of the Mayor of Sderot, Alon Davidi; and Dr. Gail Gilboa Friedman, Dean of the Faculty of Technology at Sapir College.

“This collaboration signifies a pivotal advancement in agricultural research and education,” said Prof. Burdman. “By combining Israeli expertise with Clemson University’s innovative approaches, we are poised to make significant strides in promoting global food security and sustainability.”

The collaboration supports the expansion and advancement of Sapir College’s agricultural technology programs, further strengthening its role in regional development. Student exchange programs will also be established, providing opportunities for cross-cultural learning and academic enrichment.

It is the result of a visit by Ambassador Haley to Sderot in May 2024. There, she met Amit Kochavi, senior adviser to Sderot Mayor Alon Davidi, who was seeking to revitalize agricultural communities near Sderot and Sapir College after the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas attack devastated the area.

“This partnership unites two countries, two cultures, and three universities,” said Ambassador Haley, a 1994 Clemson graduate, Clemson Board of Trustees member, and former South Carolina governor. “Today, we celebrate two agriculture giants, two leaders in innovative farming coming together. Through this partnership, we are sowing seeds that will sprout and bear fruit for generations to come.”

“This partnership is the best answer to both the rising antisemitism on campuses and the horrific terrorist attacks of October 7th,” said Kochavi. “At a time when hatred and violence seek to divide, we are building bridges of hope, prosperity, academic excellence, and innovation. This collaboration proves that the U.S. and Israel are not only the strongest allies but also partners in shaping a better future through education, technology, and unwavering resilience. Nothing will stop us from advancing together.”

Global agriculture expert and director of the Clemson Global Research Initiative, Dr. Jagger Harvey, is leading Clemson’s involvement. “Hebrew University scientists are world-class in agricultural research, and Sapir College supports agriculture in the Western Negev region,” Harvey said. “This partnership will further strengthen Clemson’s ability to address key agricultural and food insecurity challenges in Israel, South Carolina, and globally.”