Message from our President: Professor Nir Kedar

Sapir is among the largest public colleges in Israel. It is known for providing an excellent, high-quality education that is relevant to Israel’s society and job market. The campus is an open, safe and inclusive academic space for all who enter its gates. As the region’s cultural and economic anchor, Sapir contributes to local development and promotes social mobility and sustainability. 

All these accomplishments have been achieved despite Sapir’s location, near the Gaza border, in the heart of the geographical and social periphery of Israel. This is neither a coincidence nor an accident. These are the fruits of an extraordinary vision, combined with inspiration and hard work of the excellent people who work and teach at the College, and consider Sapir their academic and professional home.

On October 7th, the Sapir community suffered a severe blow in the brutal attack by Hamas. Since the atrocities of that terrible day and in the subsequent war, we have lost 30 students, alumni,  staff and a member of the board of trustees. Many along with their family members, were murdered, injured or kidnapped. In addition, 270 staff and over 1,000 students living in Sderot and Gaza Envelope communities were forced to evacuate their homes, many with barely the clothes on their backs. They have been dispersed throughout the country in temporary accommodation. 

Out of the tragedy and the pain, Sapir is leading the way to healing and recovery. It will once again be an engine of growth helping to lead the restoration of the Gaza Envelope/Otef Israel.  Sapir, is an institution of higher education that combines academic excellence with applied research, impact studies, employment skills, work and social action. Together, we will make the Western Negev a focus of Zionist fulfillment, based on: academic, social, economic and cultural innovation and entrepreneurship. 

I invite you to join me for a meaningful academic, human and intellectual experience at Sapir!