A Wake-Up Call for Science Education in Israel and an Opportunity to Lead Change

New data published this week in The Marker reveals a deeply concerning reality: only a small fraction of Israel’s 9th-grade students currently meet the Ministry of Education’s expected standards in science. Even more striking, these figures do not include large segments of the population, pointing to an even wider systemic gap in scientific literacy and preparedness. This is not only an educational challenge—it is a national one. At a time when Israel’s future depends on a strong pipeline of skilled graduates in science and technology, the foundations are simply not strong enough. At Amal Educational Network, we see this moment as both a warning and a call to action.

Serving approximately 28,000 students across Israel: more than 40% of them from Arab-speaking communities, Amal is working to transform science and technology education into a powerful engine for opportunity, equality, and social mobility. Our vision is clear: to ensure that every student, regardless of background, has access to high-quality STEM education, advanced facilities, and the tools needed to succeed in higher education and the modern workforce.

To achieve this, we are investing heavily in expanding and upgrading our science laboratories, integrating advanced technologies into classrooms, and building innovative learning environments that foster curiosity, critical thinking, and excellence. At the same time, we are committed to supporting and retaining outstanding teachers by providing them with the resources, training, and professional environment they need to thrive and lead. This work is grounded in our core values: democratic education, equal opportunity, and the belief that talent exists everywhere, even where opportunity does not. But the scale of the challenge requires strong partnerships.

At this critical juncture, philanthropic support can play a decisive role in accelerating access to high-quality science education, particularly in underserved communities and in helping Israel rebuild a robust and inclusive STEM pipeline from the ground up.