Imagine marginalized communities gaining access to higher education. That’s the story of Ono Academic College. It stands as a beacon of opportunity. Founded in 1995 by Ranan Hartman, Ono Academic College aimed to revolutionize Israel’s higher education system. Hartman wanted to include marginalized populations. He was the son of Rabbi David Hartman.
Initially, Ono Academic College was affiliated with the University of Manchester. Later, it became fully accredited by the Council for Higher Education in Israel. Starting with just 100 students in a single trailer, Ono Academic College has grown exponentially. Today, it boasts over 18,000 students across five campuses. These campuses are in Kiryat Ono, Jerusalem, Haifa, Netanya, and Or Yehuda. The college offers 47 diverse programs of study.
Ono Academic College extends its reach to various communities. Its Or Yehuda and Jerusalem campuses cater to the Haredi Jewish population. Men and women attend classes on separate days. A special joint program in law unites Muslim, Christian, and Jewish religious leaders. Ono Academic College also embraces Ethiopian-Israelis. Over 1,000 Ethiopian-Israeli students have graduated, including Pnina Tamano-Shata. She became the first Ethiopia-born woman in the Knesset and a government minister.
In 2012, Ono Academic College launched a unique track for students with Asperger syndrome. It offers a bachelor’s degree in business administration. A specialized B.A. program is available for Druze women. The Center for Academic Accessibility ensures students with disabilities can pursue academic degrees. In 2013, Ro’im Rachok was established. This 4-month training course prepares young adults with autism for service in the Israel Defense Forces.
Music fills the air at the Jonathan Wohl School of Music. It opened in 2016. Israel Prize laureate Noam Sheriff heads the school. At the dedication, Sheriff emphasized music’s universal language. This aligns with the college’s inclusive goals.
A new multidisciplinary campus at Savyon Junction integrates academic buildings and offices. Construction began in 2021. It was completed and opened in 2023.
Ono Academic College comprises several faculties. These include Law, Business Administration, and Health Professions. Also included are Humanities and Social Sciences, Marketing Communications, and the Jonathan Wohl School of Music. The college awards a range of degrees. These include LL.B., B.Sc., B.A., and M.A. degrees.
Ono Academic College fosters international cooperation. The Center for Israeli Legal Studies at Columbia Law School hosts visiting faculty from Israel. They sponsor lectures and offer fellowships and exchange opportunities.
Multiculturalism thrives through creative projects. A writing project in Arabic and Hebrew exists. A weekly phone-in program connects secular and Haredi women. A talk program features Jewish and Muslim religious leaders. They discuss bridging conflicts.
Despite some controversies regarding gender segregation and budgetary issues, Ono Academic College remains committed to its mission. Notable faculty members include Gabriela Shalev and Shai Piron. Prominent alumni include Rachel Adato and Itamar Ben-Gvir.
Ono Academic College stands as a testament to inclusivity. It provides access to education and promotes equality for a new Israel. The vision of Ranan Hartman continues to shape the college’s path. Ono Academic College propels students towards successful careers. It shows Israelis from all backgrounds what they can achieve.