German-Israeli exchange: Science connects, anti-Semitism pushes!

German-Israeli exchange: Science connects, anti-Semitism pushes!

In May 2025, a significant exchange took place as part of the “Teachers for the Future” program between PH Schwäbisch Gmünd and Levinsky-Wyngate College Tel Aviv. The aim of this initiative was to present scientific education in Schwäbisch Gmünd and to compare the educational approaches of both institutions. The delegation intensively studied physics and biology courses and also took part in a lesson at the Parler High School. The program also included visits to MINT students and excursions to Stuttgart and Ulm. During their stay in Stuttgart, the group met the representative of the Israeli Consulate General, Maren Steege, to discuss the role of students in German-Israeli relations.

“Teachers for the Future” is funded by the Ministry of Science, Research and Art in collaboration with the Philip Schwarz Foundation. PH Rector Sabla-Dimitrov emphasized at a reception in the town hall that personal exchange between teachers and students is of central importance. The PH Schwäbisch Gmünd has already taken two group trips to Israel to learn from the education systems there.

Cultural exchange and interreligious dialogues

A particular focus is on interreligious exchange, as shown by the program for theology students, which has existed for 50 years and is supported by the DAAD and the Foreign Office. This program offers students from Germany, Austria and Switzerland the opportunity to exchange ideas with Jewish and Muslim religious communities in Jerusalem. “Alumni should act as ‘Science Diplomats’ and take responsibility for peace and security in the region,” emphasized DAAD President Joybrato Mukherjee and the German Ambassador to Israel, Steffen Seibert, on the occasion of the anniversary.

Interfaith exchange promotes empathy and understanding between Israelis and Palestinians and challenges students to recognize the complexity of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Academic educational opportunities in the Palestinian territories will also be discussed. These initiatives are part of an extensive framework of over 5,000 active German-Israeli science projects and more than 450 institutional collaborations between German and Israeli universities.

Social challenges and anti-Semitism

Parallel to these positive developments, the rise of anti-Semitic attitudes in Germany, particularly among young men under 40, raises worrying questions. According to recent polls, 27% of respondents agree with the statement “Jews have too much influence in the world.” Among young men, this approval is as high as 36%. In addition, 29% of respondents show a negative attitude towards Jews due to Israeli policies.

The Bertelsmann Foundation emphasizes that anti-Semitism is not a fringe phenomenon, but is widespread in various social milieus. At the same time, surveys show that 40% of Germans consider cooperation between Germany and Israel to be sufficient, while 68% of Israelis want bilateral relations to be intensified. This discrepancy underlines the need for an objective and reflective design of relationships.
The foundation calls for critical solidarity with Israel, whereby the country's right to exist and security are unwavering. In addition, civil society exchange in education, science and culture should be expanded in order to promote better mutual understanding.