The Defense Minister’s Shield is awarded to organizations and institutions that have shown exceptional commitment to military reservists. This honor recognizes organizations that uphold the importance of reserve service in contributing to Israeli society and national defense, while guarding reservists’ rights, building a network to support them, and valuing their commitment. The honor will be presented to Afeka College at the ceremony to recognize the reserve corps, featuring defense minister, chief of the general staff, chief reserve officer and other senior Israeli defense officials. Afeka will receive the honor alongside the Technion and Bar-Ilan University.

During the Iron Swords War, over 42% of Afeka’s students have been called to the flag and served in the reserves – together with lecturers and other members of faculty. Many have served for long periods following emergency mobilization. Against this twin challenge, Afeka has maintained academic continuity, and offers an academic, administrative, financial, and emotional support network through its AS ONE campaign.

Since the beginning of the war, Afeka has provided its mobilized students with a broad personal support system, including academic adjustments, tutoring and personal mentoring, emotional support, and financial aid. Along the way, Afeka makes sure to listen, adapt, accompany, and do everything in its power to help its reservist students to continue their studies to maintain the high academic level and ensure their professional futures – even after challenging service.

President of Afeka Prof. Ami Moyal:

“Supporting the reserve corps is an integral part of Afeka’s DNA. Winning the Defense Minister’s Shield is an honor for the college – but the true privilege belongs to the serving students, who exemplify responsibility, dedication, and leadership – and we consider it our academic, moral, and national duty to provide them with everything they need to succeed.”

This is our way of saying: We will stand by you, just as you stand by our country.