Pesach Emergency Appeal 2026
From Sacrifice to Opportunity
As we approach Pesach, the festival of freedom, renewal and hope, we are mindful that for many students at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, the past two years have been defined by uncertainty, disruption and sacrifice. Since 7 October 2023, many BGU students have been called repeatedly into military reserve service, some as many as seven times, while also coping with displacement, anxiety, and significant academic disruption. Gaps in learning have widened, momentum has been lost, and emotional strain continues to affect academic performance.
Ben-Gurion University remains one of Israel’s most competitive and sought-after institutions. Under the leadership of President Prof. Daniel Chamovitz, applications are rising, research is internationally recognised, and excellence in engineering, health sciences and innovation continues to strengthen Israel’s future. Yet institutional strength cannot shield every student from the consequences of war. There is currently no dedicated funding to provide personalised academic support for those whose studies have been directly interrupted. Without focused intervention, capable and determined students risk falling behind, or leaving university before completing their degrees.
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Our Response: The Academic Tutoring Hours Bank
We are seeking £40,000 to establish a dedicated Academic Tutoring Hours Bank, providing:
· Small-group academic tutoring
· One-to-one mentoring in core subjects such as maths and English
· Structured academic guidance
· Confidence-building support alongside skills development
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This targeted programme will close academic gaps, stabilise progress, protect wellbeing, and safeguard students’ path to graduation. Students who have already given so much in service to their country should not be asked to sacrifice their education as well. This Pesach, your generosity can turn disruption into opportunity, ensuring that BGU students move forward with strength, dignity and hope.
With warmest Pesach wishes, and sincere thanks for your continued generosity,
Ben Gurion University Foundation
The Living Legacy Society
The Living Legacy Society provides an opportunity to make BGU a part of one’s legacy through planned giving. The names of members of the Living Legacy Society are inscribed on a wall in the beautiful Living Legacy Garden on the Marcus Family Campus.
For further information please call the Ben-Gurion University Foundation on 020 7446 8558.
All legacy enquiries are treated in strict confidence.
"Words without deeds are nothing.
One must show the way by example."
- David Ben-Gurion
There are many ways to support Ben-Gurion University. You may want to support research in a particular field of medical research or science and engineering. You can fund a scholarship for a needy student in memory of a loved one, you may wish to support our Community Action Department and help disadvantaged residents in the suburbs and areas surrounding our university.
One thing is certain: by supporting BGU you are helping David Ben-Gurion’s dream become a reality – together we are making the desert bloom.
If you’d like to discuss how we can use your gift please call our office on 020 3778 2068.
You can choose to allow Ben-Gurion University Foundation to use your gift where it is needed most and/or allocate your donation to a programme of your choice - every donation is appreciated.
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Legacies
A legacy is a gift left in a will that comes into effect only after your lifetime. Making changes to a will is very straightforward and you can amend you will at any time during your life to reflect your changing priorities.
The Living Legacy Society
The Living Legacy Society provides an opportunity to make BGU a part of one’s legacy through planned giving. The names of members of the Living Legacy Society are inscribed on a wall in the beautiful Living Legacy Garden on the Marcus Family Campus.
For further information please call the Ben-Gurion University Foundation on 020 3778 2068.
All legacy enquiries are treated in strict confidence.