This is one of KKL-JNF's flagship projects, aimed at closing gaps between the center and the periphery in Israel and provide equal opportunities for each and every student in Israel. As part of the project, nine new heritage centers are constructed in selected Israeli periphery towns. The Ofakim Heritage Center was donated by KKL-France.
The event was also attended by the KKL-JNF Education Division Manager Sar Shalom Gerbi, KKL-JNF Southern Region Manager Yaniv Maimon, and KKL-JNF Chief Emissary to France Daniel Benlulu.
The multidisciplinary activity in the center includes many classes in the fields of Israeli geography and history, empowerment, leadership, sustainability, building of the country and more. The centers encourage the youth community to identify with Zionist values, to serve in meaningful roles during their military or national service, and to get a taste of academic studies. In addition, the centers also hold lectures and enriching activities, and provide an option of youth movements to take their activities to a new level.
KKL-JNF Chairwoman, Ifat Ovadia-Luski: "KKL-JNF plays a central role in the development of the Negev, and it is among the top Zionist priorities. I see the KKL-JNF Heritage House, to which we celebrate a cornerstone ceremony today, as a part of this, among our many other acts of support in the city."
"KKL-JNF has invested dozens of millions in different projects in Ofakim. It is active Zionism, plain and simple. We make the vision a reality, make the desert flourish, connect Israel with the Jewish diaspora, and turn dreams into reality. The development of Southern Israel is of high strategic importance, and we are proud to spearhead this process."
According to Mayor Itzhak Danino, "This project was delayed for several years, and only after a struggle shared with other mayors, we have managed to get it started. The KKL-JNF House in Ofakim will promote the non-formal education for the youth, who will get receive educational support, enjoy classes that have been fitted to the 21st century, will have a chance of spending their time in a modern compound and most importantly – will develop local young leadership."
"Here, the future generation will learn of values and aspire for excellence, here the famous Jewish thought – Israel's most important resource – will grow. Today we have planted the seeds for a better future for the next generations and placed the cornerstone for the basis on which we will build a strong, thriving community. We thank KKL-JNF and KKL France for their uncompromising vision for the development of the country, and their help in establishing the KKL-JNF Heritage House in Ofakim."