New horizons in Ofakim

A generous pledge from longtime Weizmann friend Yossi Dahan will support the premilitary gap-year (mechina) program in the southern city of Ofakim—Israel’s first science preparatory program. Launched in September 2019, the mechina is operated by the Davidson Institute of Science Education, the educational arm of the Weizmann Institute, and aims to promote science literacy and nurture a new generation of civic leaders. The program will be named The Yossi Dahan Horizons for Science, in honor of Dahan and his tremendous contribution.

This trailblazing program offers high school graduates the opportunity to delay their enlistment in the Israel Defense Forces by one year to engage in a comprehensive educational experience. Participants develop training skills in the sciences, which they use to educate and empower the local community, teaching science and math to Ofakim schoolchildren in local schools and community institutions. The curriculum includes courses on Zionism, philosophy, and Israeli society, alongside an emphasis on science, mathematics, and technology. 

Beyond that, participants have weekly sessions on the Weizmann campus, where they meet with scientists, attend lectures, and develop their research skills. This immersive experience fosters critical thinking, curiosity, and civic responsibility.

Since the October 7 attacks, mechina participants have been volunteering with evacuees all over the country, conducting daily science activities with thousands of displaced schoolchildren and special-needs youth, volunteering at multiple displaced families’ centers, leading initiatives to strengthen the Ofakim school system, and conducting science meetings via Zoom for hundreds of schoolchildren.

A festive ceremony was held in Ofakim in May to celebrate Mr. Dahan’s gift. Attendees included Ofakim Mayor Itzik Danino, Davidson CEO Dr. Liat Ben David, Weizmann Executive Board Chair Shimshon Harel, mechina Director Eli Amedi, and Weizmann President Prof. Alon Chen. Mechina participants thanked Mr. Dahan and shared the meaningful connections they established with the local children. 

A dedicated philanthropist and active member of the Israeli Friends of the Weizmann Institute since 2011, Mr. Dahan continuously demonstrates his commitment to the betterment of society. His pledge to support the gap-year program will not only help provide much-needed educational services in the peripheral city of Ofakim, but also inspire and cultivate a new generation of scientific leaders and role models.