Through the activities carried out by Ma’an, Shenkar is spearheading the vision of increasing the accessibility of higher education to the entire spectrum of Arab society. The unit operates under the Academic Secretariat and within the HILA Student Advancement Center. The objective of the unit is to raise awareness of the disciplines studied at Shenkar, lay the foundation for a smooth transition for new students, provide social and academic guidance, and create a shared space for dialogue and reciprocity. The unit has ties with organizations outside of Shenkar, such as Arab municipalities and nonprofits. This includes the “Merhav Me'afsher” [Enabling Space] project and the Nitzanei Shenkar [Shenkar Buds] project with the Taybeh municipality; as well as an upcoming project with the municipalities of Arara and Nachaf.

In collaboration with HILA, the unit offers assistance throughout the students’ timeat Shenkar, with tutoring, social mentorship, social activities, and emotional and mental support. To prepare students for professional life after graduation, Ma’an provides occupational guidance through the Career Center by offering training, fostering connections between graduates and third- and fourth-year students, as well as employment centers and the job market. The Preparatory Program for Art and Design prepares candidates interested in studying art and design, to meet the admission requirements of academic institutions. The program provides cultural content as well as practical skills and tools.

One Step Ahead of the Rest is a program for newly-accepted students about to begin their design, art, and engineering degrees at Shenkar. The program takes place in the summer before the start of the academic year and includes first year academic courses. The objective of the program is to boost the students’ confidence, provide them with academic skills, and reduce the expected load. Here at Shenkar, we believe that public spaces should promote equality and allow an open dialogue between all members of the college. The Shared Space Program helps realize this vision. Some of the academic courses include discussion groups that create a platform for dialogue between Jewish and Arab students.[caption] The first Arab evening event (2018), planned by the Arab students of the School of Multidisciplinary Art, provided an insight into this rich culture. The guests were welcomed with delicious traditional cuisine, folkdance, Islamic art, a stand-up comedy act, and the exhibited works of the art students.

Contact: rsa-hila@shenkar.ac.il

The first Arab evening event (2018), planned by the Arab students of the School of Multidisciplinary Art, provided an insight into this rich culture. The guests were welcomed with delicious traditional cuisine, folkdance, Islamic art, a stand-up comedy act, and the exhibited works of the art students