As we say farewell to our valued colleague and friend, Ofer Dahan, we reflect on the significant impact he has had on the Bar-Ilan University community. Ofer’s dedication, vision, and leadership have inspired us all, fostering an environment of growth and collaboration. In this tribute, his close colleagues—Prof. Moshe Lewenstein, Prof. Rivka Tuval Mashiach, and Prof. Rachel Dekel—share their heartfelt memories and insights. Each of them has had the privilege of working alongside Ofer, witnessing his unwavering commitment to excellence and his ability to uplift those around him. Prof. Moshe Lewenstein: Insights on a Significant Partnership in Launching the International...

In a bold initiative to tackle contemporary global challenges, 20 universities across Italy, Israel, and the Balkans have united under the International Mobility Program—Assessing Constitutional Crisis Impact and Security (IMP–ACCTS). Spearheaded by the University of Siena with nearly €2.5 million in funding from the Italian Ministry for University and Research, the program fosters dialogue, academic mobility, and innovative solutions to constitutional crises and security through initiatives like research exchanges and joint activities, including summer and winter schools. L-R: Oz Nacker, Director of Student Exchange, and Daniel Schuval, Senior Advisor for Internationalization from BIU's International School, with Dr. Manal Totry-Jubran, Dr....

The first International Mobility Program—Assessing Constitutional Crisis Impact and Security (IMP–ACCTS) Kick-Off Conference, held over two days at the University of Salento in Lecce, Italy, in December 2024, brought together leading academics, legal experts, and institutional partners to explore pressing issues in constitutional law and human rights. The program featured discussions on topics such as the implications of judicial reform in the context of occupation, the alignment of electronic surveillance with international human rights standards, and the constitutional instability posed by regional security threats, particularly in the case of Kosovo Serb municipalities. Another key focus was on minority rights and...

Hillel International’s Global Assembly (HIGA), which brings together more than 1,200 campus leaders, educators, and students from across the world for a conference centered on growth and leadership, took place in December 2024. Bar-Ilan University was proud to participate, with a team that included representatives from the International School and the Department of Student Administration. (L-R) Shira Gafni, BIU’s Head of Global Engagement: North America; Neta Moallem, Marketing Director, International School; Ilanit Betit, BIU’s Head of Student Administration; and Ofer Dahan, Executive Director, International School. The conference featured impactful workshops, discussions, and networking opportunities, emphasizing collaboration and innovation on North...

As Prof. Moshe Lewenstein wraps up a transformative seven-year tenure as Deputy President of Bar-Ilan University, his reflections reveal a leader who has not only driven significant projects but has also laid the groundwork for future advancements within the institution. In a recent conversation, he shared insights into three key initiatives: the International School, the Youth Center, and the Business Intelligence (BI) system, each of which exemplifies his commitment to innovation, collaboration, and community engagement. Under his guidance, the International School has become a vibrant hub of activity, attracting international students and fostering global partnerships. International School colleagues celebrate Orientation...

In a vibrant event held in October 2024, Bar-Ilan University celebrated the invaluable contributions of outgoing Deputy President, Prof. Moshe Lewenstein, and outgoing Vice President for Research, Prof. Shulamit Michaeli, while warmly welcoming a new cohort of visionary leaders poised to steer the university into a future of innovation and global collaboration. A Legacy of Achievement Prof. Moshe Lewenstein, who served as Deputy President for seven transformative years, was lauded for his pioneering work in establishing the International School, an advanced BI system, and the BIU Youth Center. His leadership in projects like the Responsa Project and the construction of...

Bar-Ilan University (BIU) is actively expanding its global reach by forging meaningful partnerships with academic institutions worldwide. A recent visit to Kazakhstan highlighted BIU's commitment to strengthening ties and exploring new collaborative opportunities. Bar-Ilan University representatives with the team from the National Academy of Sciences, which falls under the President of Kazakhstan The visit focused on strategic meetings in Astana and Almaty, with a key highlight being the interaction with Bolashak, the Center for International Programs, which falls under the Kazakhstan Ministry of Science and Higher Education. Discussions revolved around potential collaborations and renewing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).  ...

Bar-Ilan University (BIU) made significant strides in connecting with existing partners and forging new collaborations at the European Association for International Education (EAIE) Conference held in Toulouse, France, in September 2024. The event served as a pivotal platform for the university's International School to engage with institutions from around the world, emphasizing BIU’s commitment to enhancing its international presence and collaboration in higher education. Focus on International Collaboration The EAIE plays a crucial role in supporting professionals involved in the internationalization of higher education. At this year's conference, the theme 'En Route!' highlighted the collective efforts of the educational community...

On Orientation Day at Bar-Ilan University, a lively Q&A panel brought together seasoned international students to share their perspectives on studying and living in Israel. Hosted by Oz Nacker, Director of Student Exchange, the panel featured students from diverse backgrounds—including Turkey, Australia, Ukraine, Italy, and India—each bringing unique insights about the challenges and rewards of their time at Bar-Ilan. Overcoming First-Year Hurdles For many, the biggest hurdle was adjusting to life far from home. Hüsne Dereli-Begue, a sixth-year postdoctoral researcher in physics from Turkey, recounted the challenges she faced moving to Israel during the pandemic with young children. “The biggest...

In recent years, the academic world has witnessed the rise of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, a campaign that aims to isolate Israel in various spheres, including academia. Initiated in 2005, BDS was founded with the intention of applying economic and political pressure on Israel, but it has since become a tool for anti-Israeli encampments, particularly in the United States and Europe and especially since the October 7 Hamas-led attack on Israel and the subsequent war with Gaza. “These movements, which often operate under the guise of human rights advocacy, target Israeli academics and institutions, undermining the universal...