BGU Celebrated at 2025 Buenos Aires Gala
Prestigious event at Teatro Colón highlights the University’s global impact and enduring ties with Argentina
Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU) was celebrated at a magnificent awards evening on 11th November held at the historic Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires, where the Argentine Association of Friends of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (AAAUBG) presented their 2025 Ben-Gurion Awards to leading figures from Argentina’s cultural, academic, legal, and media spheres.
The event drew a full audience of public leaders, intellectuals, journalists, and supporters of higher education and research. Organized by the Association of Friends, the ceremony underscored BGU’s longstanding relationship with Argentina and the University’s role as a global center for scientific innovation, social leadership, and academic excellence.
In her address, Nava Rubenzadeh, President of the Argentine Association of Friends of BGU, spoke about the University’s founding vision and its continued relevance today. She highlighted BGU’s achievements in desert research, water technologies, medicine, engineering, and multicultural education, emphasizing its commitment to social responsibility and coexistence. Rubenzadeh also reflected on the historical significance of David Ben-Gurion’s leadership and his belief in education as a cornerstone of national and societal development.
Leaders of the Association detailed BGU’s recent research milestones and international collaborations, noting the University’s unique position as one of Israel’s leading research institutions and a hub for innovation with global reach. Speakers stressed that the values embodied by BGU—academic freedom, democracy, and the pursuit of knowledge—remain especially relevant in today’s complex global environment.
The evening’s main award was presented to Argentine writer and physician Marcos Aguinis, who reflected on Ben-Gurion’s legacy and the transformative power of education and scientific inquiry. Additional recognitions were given to figures from journalism, public service, and media for their contributions to public discourse and democratic values. While the honorees came from diverse professional backgrounds, the ceremony maintained a clear focus on the University whose name the awards bear.
Other awards were presented to Infobae (An international Argentine newspaper) CEO Daniel Hadad; Buenos Aires Prosecutor General Julio Conte Grand; and journalists Alfredo Leuco and Pilar Rahola.
Among those in attendance were senior political and diplomatic figures, including former heads of government and representatives of the State of Israel in Argentina, underscoring the event’s national and international significance. The program was hosted by Argentine journalist Luis Novaresio and concluded with remarks highlighting the importance of civic responsibility and ethical leadership.
The Argentine Ben-Gurion Awards ceremony in Buenos Aires, organized by the AAAUBG, highlighted the strength of BGU’s ties with Argentina and the vital role of its friends and supporters across the country.
Photos: Gustavo Gavotti and RS
