Organizational Background:
The Information and
Counseling Center for Higher Education was established in the Bedouin city of
Rahat in early December 2004. Although located in Rahat, the center provides
services for the entire Negev Bedouin population, both in the seven established
townships and in the unrecognized villages. Most of the work is carried out in
the 11 high schools in the Bedouin community with the full collaboration of the
schools' faculty and leadership.
The center opened its
gates to applicants in early January 2005. Since then, the number of applicants
has been growing constantly. Applicants can address the center either by phone
or by visiting the center in Rahat. However, it became quickly apparent that the
vast majority of high school graduates do not continue their studies and will
have to contend with entrance into the workforce. Therefore, the Center
presently seeks to expand its activities to include the concerns of the 90% of
Bedouin youth who are seeking personal fulfillment and socioeconomic
self-sufficiency through employment.
The center contains
computers with special software that helps candidates to obtain information
about higher education institutions and programs in Israel. A team of advisers
provide the applicants with all the necessary information regarding access to
higher education. Applicants who express difficulties to choose a major can have
a private meeting with consultant who help them with selecting a major that
meets their personal tendencies and abilities. This coming year, counselors will
assist applicants with issues relating to successful entrance into the work
force, the choosing of a suitable profession and balancing work and family
issues.
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