A new €50 million Jewish school is set to open in Limassol, Cyprus, providing high-quality education for local families. The Yael Foundation aims to enhance Jewish learning and community engagement.
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Jewish School Opens in Limassol
A new school in Limassol, Cyprus, is set to transform the educational landscape for Jewish families, backed by a significant investment of €50 million.
The initiative, led by the Yael Foundation, aims to provide high-quality Jewish education in response to the increasing number of families relocating to the area.
The Yael Foundation, established by Yael and Uri Poliavich, supports 85 Jewish schools worldwide.
CEO Chaya Yosovich highlighted the urgent need for a dedicated Jewish institution, stating, “Many families were sending their kids to non-Jewish schools despite wanting a Jewish education. We saw a gap that needed to be filled.”
Investment and Vision
The new school will be the first built from scratch by the Yael Foundation, reflecting its commitment to excellence in education.
Yosovich noted, “We realized the only option was to compete with the top secular private schools. We did not know then that it would be such a massive investment, but we decided to build a model Jewish school once we found the right place and people.”
Curriculum and Student Focus
The school aims to enrol up to 1,500 students, primarily serving local families, including a mix of Israelis and Ukrainians.
“Education is as much about learning as it is about experiencing and developing talent,” Yosovich emphasized.
A significant focus will also be placed on arts education, enriching the curriculum.
Leadership and Future Plans
Designed by ADP Architects, the project is slated for completion in 2027.
Rabbi Yehoshua Smukler has been appointed principal, bringing valuable experience.
“It took us six months to find the right person for the principal job. We wanted someone who understands the needs of students,” Yosovich added.
The school will be private, but the foundation plans to offer scholarships to ensure access for all students.
Community Impact
As the school prepares to open, it represents a significant step forward for the Jewish community in Cyprus.
With thousands of Jewish families currently residing in Limassol, the new institution aims to fill an essential educational need. It will allow families to provide their children with a quality Jewish education without compromising academic standards.
Local families are encouraged to engage with the school and learn more about its initiatives, marking a new chapter in Limassol’s educational offerings.
The Yael Foundation’s commitment to creating a vibrant Jewish learning environment will enrich the city’s cultural fabric for years.