Jewish Education in the Diaspora

The Jewish Eduation in the Diaspora
Official Award Medal, 5743-1983

Improving Jewish education and cultivating Jewish identity in the Diaspora, with the ultimate aim of Aliya to Israel, as well as finding ways of reaching young people with no Jewish background at all, to try and infuse meaning into their understanding of their Jewish heritage - these are the chief aims of the Department for Jewish Education and Culture in the Diaspora, and its spheres of responsibility include : Developing Diaspora Hebrew kindergarten networks and 'Israel Studies" centers in schools; study trips in Israel for groups of pupils; expansion of advanced courses for Jewish studies teachers; promotion of Hebrew language instruction for adults in Ulpanim; Israeli administration of studies for children of Israelis in the Diaspora, publishing of books for reading and study in easy Hebrew and preparation of audiovisual teaching material.

Obverse: The Star of David, symbol of Judaism, against the globe. A pointer used for reading in the Scroll of the Law, symbolizing Jewish education and culture. The verse: "And they went about throughout all the cities of Judah, and taught the people" (Chronicles 11:7.9). Around the Edge, the English and Spanish translation of the verse.

Reverse: The words: The Department for Education and Culture in the Diaspora W.Z.O. (the initials of the World Zionist Organization) in Hebrew and English, and the emblem of the Department.

Edge: The Israel Government Coins and Medals Corporation emblem and Hebrew initials, and the serial number.

Designer: Yaacov Enyedi

Engraving: Tidhar Dagan

Mint: Hecht