BREAKING: The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, a symbol of educational excellence, celebrated its 100th anniversary in Australia with significant events in Sydney and Melbourne last week. The Australian Friends of the Hebrew University (AustFHU) hosted a packed gathering in Sydney on Sunday night, underscoring the institution’s rich history and vital role in global education.
During the Sydney event, AustFHU CEO Rob Schneider reflected on the university’s origins, highlighting the pivotal role of Israel’s first president Chaim Weizmann, who championed its establishment as early as 1911. “We had founders that include Albert Einstein, Martin Buber, Chaim Nachman Bialik, and Chaim Weizmann,” Schneider stated, emphasizing the prestigious lineage of the institution.
Israeli ambassador to Australia Amir Maimon praised the university, describing it as “a place founded not only to educate but to elevate.” He noted its remarkable achievements: “Eight Nobel laureates, one Fields Medallist, and one Abel Prize winner.” These accolades reflect the university’s enduring commitment to academic excellence and its impact on the Jewish community worldwide.
Keynote speaker Alex Ryvchin, co-CEO of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, termed the university a “bastion of truth.” He echoed Weizmann’s vision, stating, “Our true victory comes when we build things that will stand and flourish 100 years on.” This sentiment resonated deeply with attendees, reflecting the institution’s mission to address contemporary social and political issues.
In a standout moment, journalist Sharri Markson received the prestigious Scopus Award for her unwavering commitment to Israel. Markson highlighted the remarkable Jewish contribution to global knowledge, noting, “While Jews represent just 0.2% of the world’s population, there are 216 Jewish Nobel laureates, representing 22% of all Nobel Prize winners.” She humorously corrected Maimon, stating, “But nine of the Nobel laureates graduated from Hebrew University.”
AustFHU president Michael Dunkel celebrated the university’s current standing within the world’s top 100 institutions, stating that the founders would be “extremely proud” of its achievements. The university is recognized as a leader in innovation, paving the way for what is known as the “startup nation.”
The evening concluded with an innovation panel moderated by Leon Kempler, chairman of the Australia-Israel Chamber of Commerce, featuring Israeli trade commissioner Ohad Blumberg and Noam Pilpel from Sydney University’s Venture Investments.
The Melbourne event also featured Josh Frydenberg, former federal treasurer, as the keynote speaker, ensuring that the momentum of celebration continued across Australia.
These events mark a significant milestone in the university’s history, showcasing its profound impact on education, innovation, and the Jewish community. As the Hebrew University of Jerusalem embarks on its next century, it remains a beacon of knowledge and moral purpose, inspiring future generations to come.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as we continue to cover the impact of this historic institution.
