Amidst the global pandemic's disruptions, the unwavering spirit of collaboration in educational partnerships has shone brightly. Emerging from two years of virtual interactions, AIANI's coordinator, Verena Mungenast, embarked on an impactful journey to Israel for the much-anticipated International Partners' Week hosted by Bar-Ilan University's lively International School. This marked a triumphant return to in-person engagement, a significant milestone since the pandemic's onset. The event resonated strongly, drawing representatives from nearly 40 esteemed European universities, including Hungary, Romania, the Czech Republic, and Croatia.
Commencing on May 15, the week began with a vibrant opening ceremony featuring illuminating question-and-answer sessions. Prof. Oren Perez, Dean of Bar-Ilan University's Faculty of Law, showcased accomplishments, while Ran Goldstein, Director of the Center for Smart Cities, delved into innovative urban development perspectives.
Day two highlighted introductions to Bar-Ilan University and its International School, detailing the array of international programs and Study Abroad opportunities. Dr. Tova Ganzel from the Faculty of Jewish Studies provided captivating insights into Israel's history and society. A campus tour immersed participants in the academic atmosphere.
Day three embarked on captivating journeys, starting with an immersive tour of the Tell es-Safi/Gath Archaeological Project led by Prof. Aren Meier. A visit to Jerusalem followed, where the delegation marveled at the Western Wall and absorbed the city's cultural richness.
Day four showcased various departments, including Dr. Elay Rettig's fresh perspectives on global politics and the Middle East. Faculty of Engineering's Dr. Ran Gelles and Prof. Yakov Yablon of Education and Digital Media Labs shared their fields, culminating in a cutting-edge lab tour led by Prof. Alon Korngreen.
BIU's Entrepreneurship Center, UnBox Ventures, took center stage as Director Ariel Sella showcased academia's intersection with innovation. International students in BIU's Student Exchange program closed the event, highlighting global education.
Beyond BIU, Ms. Mungenast reconnected with AIANI's partner institution, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev. A fruitful meeting with coordinators Ada Morpurgo, Liat Bussiba, and Judith Saban underscored collaboration's enduring power.
Reflecting on her journey, Ms. Mungenast expressed invigoration from face-to-face interactions, extending gratitude to the BIU and BGU teams for crafting an exceptional experience.
This journey underscores educational partnerships' resilience, showcasing that the pursuit of knowledge, collaboration, and connection remains steadfast even amidst challenges. The International Partners' Week symbolized the enduring strength of academic relationships and commitment to shared growth.
Commencing on May 15, the week began with a vibrant opening ceremony featuring illuminating question-and-answer sessions. Prof. Oren Perez, Dean of Bar-Ilan University's Faculty of Law, showcased accomplishments, while Ran Goldstein, Director of the Center for Smart Cities, delved into innovative urban development perspectives.
Day two highlighted introductions to Bar-Ilan University and its International School, detailing the array of international programs and Study Abroad opportunities. Dr. Tova Ganzel from the Faculty of Jewish Studies provided captivating insights into Israel's history and society. A campus tour immersed participants in the academic atmosphere.
Day three embarked on captivating journeys, starting with an immersive tour of the Tell es-Safi/Gath Archaeological Project led by Prof. Aren Meier. A visit to Jerusalem followed, where the delegation marveled at the Western Wall and absorbed the city's cultural richness.
Day four showcased various departments, including Dr. Elay Rettig's fresh perspectives on global politics and the Middle East. Faculty of Engineering's Dr. Ran Gelles and Prof. Yakov Yablon of Education and Digital Media Labs shared their fields, culminating in a cutting-edge lab tour led by Prof. Alon Korngreen.
BIU's Entrepreneurship Center, UnBox Ventures, took center stage as Director Ariel Sella showcased academia's intersection with innovation. International students in BIU's Student Exchange program closed the event, highlighting global education.
Beyond BIU, Ms. Mungenast reconnected with AIANI's partner institution, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev. A fruitful meeting with coordinators Ada Morpurgo, Liat Bussiba, and Judith Saban underscored collaboration's enduring power.
Reflecting on her journey, Ms. Mungenast expressed invigoration from face-to-face interactions, extending gratitude to the BIU and BGU teams for crafting an exceptional experience.
This journey underscores educational partnerships' resilience, showcasing that the pursuit of knowledge, collaboration, and connection remains steadfast even amidst challenges. The International Partners' Week symbolized the enduring strength of academic relationships and commitment to shared growth.