The KKL–JNF board held a tour and a meeting at the KKL–JNF Heritage Center in Nof HaGalil (Nazareth Illit). The initiative for the KKL–JNF Heritage Center is a flagship project originated by KKL–JNF World Chairman Daniel Atar with the goal of reducing educational and social gaps within Israeli society. The first KKL–JNF Heritage Center, which opened in Nof HaGalil, was established more than a year ago.
Before holding the meeting there, the KKL–JNF directors toured the house and spoke with the students and staff. After forming their impression of the building's striking, advanced design and of the inviting learning environment, the directors heard about the house's significant contribution to improving the educational achievements of the town's students. The percentage earning matriculation certificates in Nof HaGalil rose significantly in the past year, from 67.4% in the 2016–17 academic year to 77.9% in 2017–18. The Nof HaGalil municipality credits the KKL–JNF Heritage Center with a significant contribution to that achievement.
The KKL–JNF directors tour the KKL–JNF Heritage Center in Nof HaGalil (Nazareth Illit). Photo: Israel Peretz, KKL–JNF photo archive
"Two years ago the KKL–JNF board of directors adopted my suggestion to launch this initiative, and I'm happy that today the directors have been able to see what a success it is. This place in Nof HaGalil is a tremendous success story, and in light of its success, we'll be setting up nine more KKL–JNF Heritage Center around Israel over the next two years," said KKL–JNF World Chairman Daniel Atar.
Nof HaGalil Mayor Ronen Plott told the directors that whenever he comes to visit, he marvels at the success of the place. "Students tell me that they come here three times a week and they say how they've boosted their grades. For example, from 30 to 85 in chemistry or from 40 to 90 in physics. It's simply unbelievable what this place has done for them," said Plott.
Hodaya Amar, a student entering 11th grade, told how much the KKL–JNF Heritage Center has empowered her: "The KKL–JNF Heritage Center gave me the motivation and the will to succeed. This place helped me ahead and gave me the ability to achieve a dream of mine so that at the age of 16, I opened my own business. My dream is to be a media professional, and thanks to the KKL–JNF Heritage Center, I've obtained TV interviews and I've reflected well on the town. Studies here are accompanied by values. We also learn here that grades aren't everything and it's important first and foremost to practice our humanity."
The director of the KKL–JNF Heritage Center, Shimon Abuchatzeira, said in conclusion: "This beautiful building houses a great deal of heart, and love. Our working method is to establish communications with the young people, the staff, and the authorities. That's the magic formula for this place, a place with a great deal of content and with the right atmosphere for success."