Jewish educators from around the world are set to convene at the Global Jewish Educators Summit in Jerusalem, aiming to address key challenges and strengthen Jewish identity across diverse communities. The event will bring together participants from a broad range of educational settings and countries, facilitating cross-cultural exchange and collaboration.

Among those attending is Rabbi Levi Milecki, head of primary at Kesser Torah College in Sydney, Australia. Milecki highlighted the significant obstacles facing Jewish education in Australia, including assimilation, the high cost of living, and rising antisemitism. He cited the tragic Hanukkah shootings at Bondi Beach on December 14, 2025, where 15 people were killed and 40 wounded, as a stark reminder of these dangers. Over 90 students from his school were present at the scene, deeply impacting the community.

“Our understanding that Australia was one of the safest places has been challenged,” Milecki said. He expressed gratitude for the support received from institutions such as Sheba Medical Center, Hatzalah, and One Family in the aftermath of the attack. According to Milecki, these connections demonstrate the global Jewish community’s unity and resilience in facing adversity. He emphasized the critical role educators play in nurturing the next generation to maintain a strong Jewish identity and pride.

From Cape Town, South Africa, Rabbi Sam Thurgood, head of Jewish life and learning at the United Herzlia Schools, described how recent events, including the attacks on October 7, have underscored the vulnerabilities of Jewish communities worldwide. He stressed that a firm grounding in Jewish identity and values is essential to effectively confront antisemitism. “We’re not here to defy the antisemites. We’re here because this is who we are,” he remarked.

Thurgood highlighted that a notable strength of South African Jewish education is the high enrollment rate in Jewish day schools, with 75% to 85% of Jewish children attending. This centralization of education in the community bolsters shared values and identity but also presents the challenge of meeting diverse expectations. He added that young South African Jews typically maintain a strong, positive connection to Israel.

Both Milecki and Thurgood look forward to the opportunities for dialogue and learning the summit will provide. They anticipate sharing experiences, gaining insights from international peers, and reinforcing their commitment to fostering Jewish continuity through education.

The Global Jewish Educators Summit seeks to inspire and connect educators worldwide, emphasizing their vital contribution to Jewish life, identity, and community resilience amid ongoing challenges.