Ayalim students held a ceremony in the newly renovated student village – Israel News

The Ayalim Association held a ceremony on Tuesday in SderotThe newly refurbished student village marks the start of the 2024 academic year.

The event, with the theme “Courage and Renewal,” was attended by hundreds of students and Ayalim youth from across Israel, who came together to celebrate resilience in the wake of the October 7 attacks and ongoing events. War between Israel and Hamas. The ceremony reflected the enormous effort put into rebuilding the village and its determination to prosper as a symbol of Israel’s resilience.

The student village, whose restoration was carried out with the support of the municipality of Sderot and the Jewish National Fund (JNF), was directly damaged by rocket fire during the recent conflict. On October 7The students were locked in their apartments while rockets and gunfire were fired around them, some near the local police station. The Ayalim Association then facilitated the evacuation by relocating the students to hotels near the Dead Sea, where they initiated programs for local youth, providing ongoing community support and building resilience even in the face of displacement.

The ceremony opened with speeches from Sigal Barzilai, CEO of Ayalim; Mayor of Sderot Alon Davidi; and Shalom Gharbi, JNF Director of Education and Community. Barzilai highlighted the city’s journey from devastation to resilience, saying: “Our community has endured extraordinary challenges, but our resilience has brought us back here.” Mayor Davidi called Sderot a “symbol of resilience” and highlighted the growth of a dedicated young community eager to rebuild their lives in the Negev.

Ceremony in the restored student village in Sderot. (credit: DAVID SALEM)

Shalom Gharbi of the JNF reflected on the spirit of Israel, stating: “Today’s meeting is a testament to the strength of Israel. Even in the midst of pain and loss, we restore and remember those who sacrificed themselves. In Sderot, in the heart of the renewing Negev, we honor the unwavering spirit of families, communities and the State of Israel.”

A day filled with inspiring talks

The day also featured inspiring speeches by Iris Haim, mother of fallen soldier Yotam Haim, and Colonel (retired) Jonathan Raz, discussing challenges in the Middle East. The panel, titled “A Nation of Heroes,” allowed survivors and rescuers on Oct. 7 to share their experiences, including stories of the courage of local heroes such as Oz Davidian and Maj. (Reserve) Eviatar Zeitouni, highlighting the heroism and sacrifice inherent in Sderot. and its neighboring communities.

Since October 7, Ayalima members have been at the forefront of social initiatives, and this event highlights the ongoing mission to rebuild the student village and attract young Israelis to Sderot, the Negev and the northern regions of Israel.