International Jewish Educator Conference to Convene in Jerusalem
Israel will host the International Jewish Educator Conference in October 2026, bringing together 250 global and 100 Israeli educators to discuss Jewish identity, education challenges, and solidarity.
The Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism, in cooperation with UnitEd and the Prime Minister's Office Ceremonies and State Events Division, will host the International Jewish Educator Conference from October 12 to 15, 2026. The event will bring together approximately 250 educational network directors, school principals, educators, and leaders from dozens of Jewish communities worldwide, including the USA, France, Argentina, Canada, the UK, Australia, Mexico, Russia, and Ukraine. Additionally, 100 Israeli educators and principals will join the conference and tours in collaboration with the Ministry of Education.
Opening Gala and Awards
The conference will open on the evening of October 12 with a festive gala at the Jerusalem Theater, attended by President Isaac Herzog and Minister of Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism Amichai Chikli. Hosted by Noy Bar and Natasha Kirtchuk, the evening will feature performances by Eviatar Baney, clarinetist Chilik Frank, Miriam Peretz, and diaspora educators sharing stories of Jewish education and recent challenges in their communities.
"The future of the Jewish people is built every day in schools around the world. Jewish educators are the ones who grant the next generation a Jewish identity and a connection to Israel," stated Avi Cohen-Scali, Director-General of the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism.
During the gala, the International Jewish Educator Award will be presented for the first time to eight outstanding educators from around the world. The initiative is a joint venture by the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs, UnitEd, The Jerusalem Post, the World Zionist Organization, Herzog College, and the Miver Foundation, honoring exceptional contributions to Jewish identity and ties to Israel.
Professional Workshops and Field Tours
On Tuesday, October 13, a global Beit Midrash day will take place at the Ramada Hotel in Jerusalem, featuring plenary sessions, panels, and workshops addressing current challenges in Jewish schools. Participants will also tour the City of David and develop practical work plans for their home communities.
Later in the week, participants will embark on educational tours across Israel, visiting the South, the Gaza envelope, and Jerusalem. These tours aim to provide firsthand exposure to innovative Israeli educational models, Zionist heritage, and communities dealing with the aftermath of the October 7 events.
