What's New?

The course, which provides participants with professional skills for work as computer technicians, was developed by members of the faculty of the College for Practical Engineering and is taught by them. During the 144-hour course, participants undergo in-depth training on computer components, computer disassembly and assembly, software installation, communication network operation, troubleshooting and repair. Professional training in the course is complemented by social activities that provide individual attention while strengthening the group and bolstering participants' self-esteem.

Collaboration with the Ministry of Education is expected to lead to contact with the IDF Communications Corps, allowing interested graduates of the course to serve as computer technicians in various IDF units, a professional role in growing demand by the military. Program leaders anticipate that in future years graduates find work in the computer field, and that some of them will choose to pursue academic studies in the Department of Computer Sciences at Tel-Hai.

Funding for the course is provided primarily by the UK-based Glencore Foundation for Education and Welfare, which provides major support for the development of the Israeli periphery and closing socioeconomic gaps.

According to Yossi Malka, Managing Director of Tel-Hai College, "the new course is an integral part of the social vision of the college, opening the gates to academia for young people who have not found their place in the conventional school system. All of the partners to the project are witnessing the immense thirst for knowledge and great potential of this youth. We are happy for the opportunity to lead this program. In light of its success, we aspire to collaborate with the Glencore Society on expansion of the program in coming years, by offering additional courses in other fields."

Keren Izuz, the social coordinator of the program, reports: "Every time I meet the group I realize the significant and powerful effect that the course and the encounter with the college has on these young people. The program is new, but we have already seen the importance of this "peek" into the academic world. The fact the course takes place at Tel-Hai sends a message to participants that they must take responsibility as students. They are learning about personal commitment and developing study habits, while at the same time they understand that they have the ability to make a change in their lives. Most importantly, they discover that someone believes in them. The message we give them is 'Never give up; keep looking for the small light that will guide you.' I am pleased to say that the College is that light for these young men and women."