In a historic first, approximately 130 agricultural students from Zambia have arrived in Israel, marking the beginning of a groundbreaking educational initiative aimed at advancing agricultural knowledge and skills. The students were flown in on an Arkia Airlines flight, organized by the Ramat Negev Regional Council, and will spend the next 11 months working alongside Israeli farmers in the Ramat Negev region.
The students’ involvement is part of the “Agricultural Interns” program, which operates under the Israel Aid Agency (Mashav Division). This program is designed to provide hands-on experience in agriculture, with a focus on enhancing food security and promoting sustainable farming practices.
Eran Doron, head of the Ramat Negev Regional Council, explained that the initiative is part of a broader effort to share Israel’s agricultural expertise with countries in Africa. “The project is aimed at addressing global food security challenges, while also contributing to Israel’s foreign relations,” Doron said. “We are particularly proud that this program has continued without interruption, even during times of conflict, and that we are able to offer this opportunity to Zambia and other African nations.”
This collaboration not only focuses on agritech but also includes humanitarian efforts, with Israel supporting the life-saving work of the Save a Child’s Heart organization. The initiative underscores the mutual commitment between Israel and Zambia to build a better, more sustainable future.
In addition to the arrival of the Zambian students, the flight also returned to Zambia with graduates of the program who had remained in Israel to help maintain agricultural operations in the region during wartime. The continuation of agricultural production is seen as crucial to ensuring food security even in times of crisis.
Israeli companies in agriculture, water management, technology, health, and defense are also actively contributing to Zambia’s development, further strengthening the ties between the two nations.
Israeli Ambassador to Zambia, Ofra Farhi, coordinated the inclusion of a medical delegation from the Save a Child’s Heart organization on the flight, alongside hundreds of tons of medical supplies. This humanitarian gesture further solidifies the long-standing cooperation between Israel and Zambia in the fields of health and development.
Arkia Airlines CEO, Oz Berlowitz, expressed his pride in the airline’s involvement in the initiative. “This mission is a perfect blend of educational, humanitarian, and national values. It represents the commitment of Arkia to support projects that benefit communities and nations through collaboration, innovation, and shared goals,” Berlowitz said.