The central goals of the Israel Young Academy include: promoting science education in Israel at the various age levels in schools; encouraging teenagers and young adults to consider a career in science as an attractive option; exposing every young person in Israel to the scientific work conducted in research institutions.

 

In order to advance these objectives, the Israel Young Academy held a discussion forum on “Science, School, University” on June 16. The goal of the discussions was to develop an Introduction to Science Initiative by bringing together various people engaged in science education (for example, senior officials from the Education Ministry and Science Ministry, experts on science education, directors of science enrichment programs for youth, directors of science museums, science teachers, pupils and scientists). This project aims to bring every pupil to a university, at least once during his or her high school studies, to meet with scientists and learn about the nature of scientific work.

 

The vision behind the Introduction to Science Initiative is based on the recognition that few people – other than students and scholars – visit universities, despite the fact that their gates are open to all. This lack of connection is an influential factor in the public’s perception of the universities as “ivory towers.”

 

The connection between academia and the community is vital for the entire society. Strengthening this connection will promote understanding and appreciation of the importance of diverse fields of research, ranging from the humanities to brain science. It will boost the standing of young scientists in the society, facilitate a connection with future students and spark the curiosity of young people who have never considered pursuing academic studies or an academic career.

 

The Israel Young Academy believes in fostering the connection between academia and society in Israel. The State of Israel has a social obligation to make the universities accessible to the entire society. This will also strengthen weaker populations and preserve the standing of academic research. We hope that policymakers in the government ministries will join our initiative to create a program in which every pupil in the State of Israel will visit a university at least once. Exposing pupils to higher education, to research possibilities and to the wide range of sciences will offer them a new, intriguing and refreshing experience.