Leading Israeli Social Researcher:
Gandel Institute Playing a Significant Role

Dr Ezra Kopelowitz, Director of CEO Research Success Technologies, a leading Israeli research company, believes that the Gandel Institute for Adult Jewish Learning is making a significant contribution to the field of adult Jewish learning in Israel. Currently at over 400 students, with a 30% annual growth rate, Gandel is involving Jewish Israelis in serious text study on a weekly basis. Many of the participants would not be otherwise engaged in Jewish learning.

Kopelowitz has conducted extensive research into the growing phenomenon of secular Israelis reclaiming their heritage and is a recognized expert in this field. He says that Jewish education aimed at secular Israeli adults has been percolating over the past 20 years, with more and more learning opportunities opening up for a population eager to enrich their Jewish knowledge. With the strengthening presence of the ultra-Orthodox and religious fundamentalist factions in Israeli society and the weakening of the mainstream Zionist movements, many secular Israelis are feeling increasingly unsettled with the quality of their "Jewish life" in Israel. Whereas, once affiliation with a Zionist movement, celebration of national holidays and army service sufficed as the basis for their Jewish identity, today increasing numbers are looking for more intensive and meaningful Jewish involvements that touch on their daily lives.