The ceremony was attended by KKL-JNF Chairwoman Ifat Ovadia-Luski, Mayor of Migdal HaEmek Yaki Ben Chaim, JNF Holland Chairman David Kornmehl, and a delegation of board members, donors, and representatives from the Dutch-based EDP Foundation, which played a key role in funding the new center.
The Migdal HaEmek branch is the fourth in KKL-JNF’s expanding network of excellence centers operating in Israel’s north and south, alongside centers in Nof HaGalil, Kiryat Malakhi, and Akko. Additional centers are expected to open soon in Beit She’an, Safed, Kiryat Shmona, Ofakim, and Sderot—part of a broader national vision to cultivate future leadership and academic achievement among youth across the country.
The new center was made possible through the generous support of JNF Holland and the EDP Foundation. Their contributions reflect the countinued connection and solidarity between Jewish and non-Jewish communities abroad and both the State of Israel and KKL-JNF’s mission.
The KKL-JNF House for Excellence in Migdal HaEmek offers a comprehensive educational and social framework for local youth. It provides professional academic support in science, mathematics, English, and technology, alongside courses, workshops, and programs in personal development and leadership. Activities take place in the afternoons, in small groups, led by a skilled educational staff—and are offered completely free of charge.
Ifat Ovadia-Luski, Chairwoman of KKL-JNF, said: "The opening of the KKL-JNF House for Zionism and Excellence in Migdal HaEmek is part of our broader commitment to deepening Zionist education while promoting excellence and opportunity for youth in the periphery. Through this unique initiative, KKL-JNF is instilling values in young people and nurturing the next generation of leaders.”
Yaki Ben Chaim, Mayor of Migdal HaEmek, added: "The launch of the KKL-JNF House in Migdal HaEmek is a milestone for our city’s youth—both educationally and ethically. This important collaboration aims to close gaps and cultivate a culture of excellence. I welcome this vital initiative, which is fully aligned with our commitment to investing in the future of Migdal HaEmek. As someone who places educational excellence at the center of our city’s vision, I am confident this new center will play a key role in advancing that goal.”