Tel Aviv, Sep 2026 : Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday visited the Benzion Netanyahu School in Ramle as schools across the country reopened for the 2026-27 academic year.
The school was damaged by an Iranian missile during the recent conflict and underwent extensive rehabilitation ahead of the new academic session. Netanyahu, accompanied by Education Minister Yoav Kisch, met teachers, administrative staff and students during his visit and toured the renovated premises.
The rehabilitated school building was formally inaugurated ahead of the reopening of classes, marking the return of students to an institution that had sustained damage during the conflict.
Across Israel, around 2.6 million students, including nearly 180,000 first-graders, are expected to begin the new academic year at schools and kindergartens.
The Education Ministry said this year's academic programme will place a strong emphasis on strengthening students' sense of belonging and resilience, particularly in the aftermath of the recent conflict. Education on identity and heritage will also receive greater attention.
The ministry is further introducing financial education initiatives and expanding the use of artificial intelligence in classrooms, learning programmes and examinations as part of efforts to prepare students for a rapidly changing environment.
Education Minister Kisch said the government was committed to strengthening children's resilience and their connection to their communities while providing them with the knowledge and skills required to deal with the challenges of a changing world.
The ministry has outlined three major priorities for the 2026-27 academic year. These include belonging and security, identity and roots, and knowledge and tools for coping with a changing world.
Netanyahu's visit to the Ramle school highlighted the government's focus on restoring educational infrastructure affected by the conflict while ensuring that students can return to regular academic life.
The reopening of schools comes as Israel continues to deal with the broader social and economic impact of the conflict, with authorities seeking to support children and families and strengthen resilience within communities.
The Education Ministry said the new academic year would combine academic development with measures aimed at fostering security, identity, resilience and practical skills among students.
