The Challenge

Israel is recognized as a world leader in the sciences and technology, with 9% of Israelis working in the hi-tech sector pursuing careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics). And yet, Israelis from marginalized communities lack access to prep courses and mentors who might set them up for success in these highly desirable fields.

A Path to STEM Success

UJA Benin Scholars works closely with leaders and educators in STEM fields, identifying talented youth from the social and economic periphery early on and providing them with the support to pursue science degrees.

  • As soon as they enroll in leading colleges and universities across Israel, the scholars are provided with full scholarships and living stipends.

  • Students who become UJA Benin Scholars join a supportive network of peers and work with professionals who design co-curricular activities, academic support services, and career advancement initiatives that fit their individual needs.

  • Collaborating with higher education institutions, UJA works meticulously to track the progress of each scholar so that they receive the support they need to thrive, complete their degrees, and get a STEM job that matches their career goals. We’re also working to constantly evaluate and improve programs, with the goal of contributing to best practices in the field. 

As one of the largest scholarship programs in Israel, UJA Benin Scholars is a game changer in advancing talented young people from the social and economic periphery.

Albert Benin’s Vision

UJA Benin Scholars is part of Mr. Albert Benin’s legacy, honoring his parents, Selim and Rachel Benin.

Born in Israel to a wealthy family from Yemen, Albert lived in Egypt during World War II, until the mid-1950s when Egypt expelled foreign residents. He then immigrated to France where he studied architecture. Over the years, Albert’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to develop highly successful businesses internationally. He was a visionary for Israel long before the term “start up nation” was coined, understanding that the country’s future lay in the minds of its young people and the emerging technologies of a new age.

When Albert died in 1999, he left his residual estate to UJA-Federation to establish UJA Benin Scholars in Israel. With the settlement of this estate in 2021, UJA has been working strategically with Israeli higher education institutions, national and local government, high school networks, NGOs, philanthropies, and other stakeholders to realize Albert Benin's vision.

Questions? Contact Yael Israel-Cohen.