The student village in Pardes Katz is a social project that Shenkar has actively been involved in since 2016. The project is rooted in the ambitious initiative by the Council for Higher Education, which encourages Israeli academies to assume social responsibility and direct social action alongside the advancement of research and teaching. As such, a nationwide call was distributed in 2012 by the organization Totzeret Ha’aretz (Made in Israel) who work in partnership with institutions of higher education and local authorities. The aim – to create young communities that relocate to Israel’s socio-geographic periphery, rooting themselves within and enabling it to flourish.

The Pardes Katz student village is one of fourteen such locations around Israel and currently operates two student sub-communities, with over thirty participants that dwell amongst the Charedi community (ultra-orthodox Jewish community) in the heart of Bnei Brak. The project here has enabled an interesting opportunity for the students of Shenkar to engage and form a dialogue, thereby bridging the religious and secular life styles. With each student responsible for their own ‘mission’ according to their abilities and interests, the community is growing and improving. The activities range between informal education, civic advancement and culture: the community has already established its own pub, synagogue and even a dog park.

The program benefits those living in Pardes Katz, just as much as the students themselves. In return for giving back to the community, the students receive an annual grant covering their tuition and helping rent accommodation in the area. Overall the project forms a mutual horizon for both students and the people of Pardes Katz, where the possibility of living as an integrated, optimistic and connected community is achievable, despite the differences between the individuals that form it.