Background
We proudly support the Druze Veterans Association (“DVA”) and its Druze Technology and Empowerment Center (“DTec”) in the village of Isfiya. We believe that strengthening of the Biblical bond between the Druze and the Jews is our moral commitment and it is essential for the prospect of Israel's security and peace.
Who are the Druze?
The Druze are a unique, Arabic-speaking ethno-religious group numbering approximately one million globally. Druze mostly live in Syria, Lebanon, and Israel. Approximately 140.000 Druze live in Israel, predominantly in the Carmel Mountain region, the Galilee and the Golan Heights.
Why do we support the Druze Veterans organization and DTec?
Most of the male Israeli Druze proudly serve in the IDF. While they only make up to 3% of the total Israeli population, the number of Druze soldiers in the IDF is 4%. The rate of their enlistment in IDF combat service is one of the highest among any other ethnic, religious, or social group. Most Druze women serve in civil service. The Druze represent an unparalleled voice in the Arab-speaking world as they engage in Israeli advocacy debunking the often-hostile narrative coming from the Middle Eastern region.
A large number of Druze veterans struggles to progress professionally and academically following their release from the military service. This creates a socioeconomic burden on the community. We believe that with DTec’s expert knowledge, the Druze veterans receive the right support and guidance that helps them navigate and succeed within the Israeli hi-tech job and academic ecosystem.
What does the organization do?
The Druze Veterans Association built its Druze Technology and Empowerment Center in 2020 in cooperation with the Technion, a leading engineering university and research center in Israel. It has witnessed its graduates succeed in the Tech sector, as students, employees, and entrepreneurs.
DTEC offers its students
- Training courses in tech fields in high demand, such as cyber security.
- Pre-academic training courses
- Assistance with job-market placement
- Assisting Druze women in joining STEM studies.
The DVA operates a war room founded on October 7th, directing their activities at Arab-speaking news agencies, extensive activity over social networks, and general advocacy for Israel’s democracy.
