Changing mindset: New program teaches Israeli students Arabic language and culture

• Published date: 10 April 2024
• Author: JERUSALEM POST STAFF
• Publication title: Jerusalem Post, The: Web Edition Articles (Israel)

The program targets Israeli students, typically in their third year or beyond, who will have the chance to learn from a distinguished faculty that includes Israeli diplomats, journalists, security personnel, and even former government officials

Some of the program's prominent figures include Jason Greenblatt, a previous US envoy to the Middle East, and Brig. Gen. Yossi Kuperwasser, who formerly headed the research division of the Israel Defense Forces' Intelligence Corps.

At the program's inauguration, Israel's Agriculture and Rural Development Minister, Avi Dichter, stressed the significance of looking beyond language acquisition.

"Beyond learning the Arabic language, it is essential to understand the Arab mindset, which differs from ours. The students of this new course will have a unique opportunity to do so with the expertise of top professionals in the field. I applaud this amazing initiative, which will enable you to represent Israel honorably in the Arab world," he said.

The JCPA created the program after recognizing a growing need for Israeli students to bridge the cultural divide with their Arab neighbors. This need became particularly evident after the outbreak of the current war when the center actively disseminated information to the international community.

"With the start of the war, the concept has changed, and the Arabic language and culture have become important and even essential tools for every Israeli, especially those seeking to participate in Israel's efforts in the Middle East," said Middle East expert and Vice president of the JCPA Aviram Bellaishe.

"This is particularly necessary for analyzing threats and risks in order to understand 'Middle Eastern thinking,' to build bridges with regional countries and expand the historical Abraham Accords," he added.

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