In a significant initiative to tackle pressing agricultural, nutritional, and environmental challenges, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has partnered with Clemson University in South Carolina, USA, and Sapir College. This collaboration aims to harness the unique strengths of each institution to drive innovation and sustainability in agriculture.
The partnership focuses on joint research initiatives addressing agricultural, nutritional, and environmental issues relevant to both Israel—particularly the Western Negev region—and South Carolina. It includes efforts to secure funding through collaborative grant proposals, as well as the development of an international strategic framework to enhance research and teaching capabilities. An additional key goal is to assist developing countries facing similar agricultural challenges by sharing expertise and best practices.
Additionally, the collaboration supports the expansion and advancement of Sapir College’s agricultural technology programs, further strengthening its role in regional development. Student exchange programs will also be established, providing opportunities for cross-cultural learning and academic enrichment.
The signing ceremony, held this week at Clemson University, was attended by prominent figures, including Ambassador Nikki Haley, a distinguished alumna of Clemson University, former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, and a steadfast supporter of Israel, Prof. Saul Burdman, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environment at the Hebrew University; Amit Kochavi, senior advisor of the Mayor of Sderot, Alon Davidi; and Dr. Gail Gilboa Friedman, Dean of the Faculty of Technology at Sapir College.
Prof. Saul Burdman expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "This collaboration signifies a pivotal advancement in agricultural research and education. By combining Israeli expertise with Clemson University's innovative approaches, we are poised to make significant strides in promoting global food security and sustainability."
“This partnership unites two countries, two cultures and three universities," said Ambassador Nikki Haley, a 1994 Clemson graduate, Clemson Board of Trustees member and former South Carolina governor. “Today, we celebrate two agriculture giants, two leaders in innovative farming coming together. Through this partnership, we are sowing seeds that will sprout and bear fruit for generations to come.”
The collaboration follows a visit by Ambassador Haley to Sderot in May 2024. There, she met Amit Kochavi, senior adviser to Sderot Mayor Alon Davidi. Kochavi had a bold idea to revitalize agricultural communities near Sderot and Sapir College after the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack devastated the area.
His idea was to create a collaboration between Israel and the U.S. to help drive economic growth in the Western Negev region.
Amit Kochavi said: “This partnership is the best answer to both the rising antisemitism on campuses and the horrific terrorist attacks of October 7th. At a time when hatred and violence seek to divide, we are building bridges of hope, prosperity, academic excellence, and innovation. This collaboration proves that the U.S. and Israel are not only strongest allies but also partners in shaping a better future through education, technology, and unwavering resilience. Nothing will stop us from advancing together.”
Dr. Jagger Harvey, global agriculture expert and director of the Clemson Global Research Initiative, is leading Clemson’s involvement. "Hebrew University scientists are world-class in agricultural research, and Sapir College supports agriculture in the Western Negev region," Harvey said. "This partnership will further strengthen Clemson’s ability to address key agricultural and food insecurity challenges in Israel, South Carolina and globally."
Dr. Gilboa Freedman added: "Sapir Academic College is establishing a Faculty of Technology, driven by strategic collaborations with industry leaders and academic institutions that share its vision of pioneering technological advancement in the Western Negev and empowering Sapir College students.
This key partnership with the Faculty of Agriculture at the Hebrew University and Clemson University presents a unique opportunity for globally impactful research, with a strong focus on agricultural applications in the Western Negev—Israel’s granary—enhancing national food security and resilience."
This initiative is further strengthened through collaboration with the Municipality of Sderot, ensuring that the partnership's benefits resonate throughout the local community.
The alliance between these esteemed institutions marks a significant step toward integrating Israeli agricultural knowledge with Clemson University's cutting-edge innovations. Together, they aim to tackle global challenges related to food security and environmental sustainability, setting a precedent for future international collaborations.
For a century, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has been a beacon for visionary minds who challenge norms and shape the future. Founded by luminaries like Albert Einstein, who entrusted his intellectual legacy to the university, it is dedicated to advancing knowledge, fostering leadership, and promoting diversity. Home to over 23,000 students from 90 countries, the Hebrew University drives much of Israel’s civilian scientific research, with over 11,000 patents and groundbreaking contributions recognized by nine Nobel Prizes, two Turing Awards, and a Fields Medal. Ranked 81st globally by the Shanghai Ranking (2024), it celebrates a century of excellence in research, education, and innovation. To learn more about the university’s academic programs, research, and achievements, visit the official website at http://new.huji.ac.il/en.
Clemson University, located in South Carolina, USA, is a top-tier public research institution known for its strong commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement. Founded in 1889, the university has built a reputation for its cutting-edge research and educational programs, particularly in agriculture, forestry, life sciences, engineering, and business. With a focus on addressing global challenges, Clemson actively collaborates with industry leaders and research institutions to drive solutions in sustainability, technology, and health sciences. For more information, visit https://www.clemson.edu/
Sapir College, located in Israel’s southern region near Sderot, is a prominent academic institution dedicated to social impact, community engagement, and regional development. Sapir offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as social sciences, humanities, law, communication, film, business administration, and technology. The college places a strong emphasis on innovation, entrepreneurship, and social responsibility, and is deeply committed to strengthening the Negev region, fostering a vibrant academic environment that integrates theory with real-world application. Through its collaborations with local industries, government initiatives, and social organizations, the college plays a crucial role in empowering students and contributing to the broader Israeli society. For more information, visit https://www.sapir.ac.il/