Special Scholarships Awarded to Student Reservists
A total of 181 Ben-Gurion University students who served for more than 235 days in the IDF reserves during the past academic year received special scholarships in recognition of their particularly significant contribution to national security while pursuing their academic studies. Each recipient was awarded a $1,000 scholarship, generously donated by supporters and friends of Ben-Gurion University in the United States. These scholarships are in addition to grants already provided by the University to all reserve duty students as part of a comprehensive support package.
On Tuesday, December 17, Dean of Students Prof. Orna Almog hosted a special event in the W.A. Minkoff Senate Hall honoring these dedicated student reservists. Some of the students attended in uniform during a brief leave and then returned to their units. Others had just begun to readjust to campus life before being called back for additional reserve duty.
"We understand your sacrifice and the immense challenges of balancing reserve duty with academic studies and family life," said Jeff Kaye, the University's Vice President for External Relations and Resource Development. "This is our opportunity to express how deeply we value each and every one of you for what you’ve done for us—and likely will continue to do in the future."
Since the start of the Iron Swords war, a significant number of Ben-Gurion University students continue to juggle both academic pursuits and reserve service. Recently, the number of BGU students shouldering this dual responsibility reached 6,385—the highest proportion among universities in Israel.
The University, under the leadership of President Prof. Daniel Chamovitz, is committed to supporting these students. Resources and energy have been dedicated to ensuring that their education remains uninterrupted despite the ongoing conflict. To this end, a fund was established to provide scholarships for students facing financial difficulties, offering assistance to address a variety of needs.
