Education

We believe that everyone should have an equal opportunity to learn and that education is the key to empowering refugees and asylum seekers to become self-sufficient. Without proficiency in Hebrew and English refugees and asylum seekers remain disadvantaged, isolated and marginalised. Limited Hebrew and/or English skills heightens depression and social isolation amongst asylum seekers as it prevents them from functioning independently in Israeli society and either securing employment or progressing their careers. They often experience acute frustration in everyday situations and in the workplace their lack of Hebrew causes health and safety hazards. Further, they are vulnerable to exploitation as they cannot negotiate for improved terms of employment or safer working conditions.

In response to this need, ARDC opened the Refugee Education Center (REC) in Tel Aviv in January 2009. We deliver language tuition to refugees and asylum seekers of all ages and facilitate access to vocational training and higher education. Our programs aim to develop their skill set and communication skills in order to help them integrate into the local community or to be a part of the reconstruction of their country of origin upon their return.

Until today, the REC remains the only learning center of its kind in Israel―delivering educational services to over 800 children and adults annually.