Head of Manpower discussed chief ethical values and IDF-run education programs that enable soldiers to advance academically during their military service
Date: 26/08/2012, 4:09 PM
Author: Rotem Pesso
Head of the Manpower Directorate, Maj. Gen. Orna Barbivai participated in the Mifal HaPayis Education Forum Conference last week, and discussed the various educational programs run by the IDF.
Maj. Gen. Barbivai spoke of the different populations and minorities that make up the IDF and said, "Similarly to Israeli society the IDF is composed of a variety of different populations, some of them polar opposites. The motivation to serve in combat units and go on to commanding positions is at an all time high."
Aside from the IDF's responsibility for Israel's security, it is entrusted with the wellbeing of each individual soldier serving among its ranks. The Education and Youth Corps takes on this responsibility and enables soldiers to complete their high school education, improve matriculation exam grades, and start their higher education studies during their military service.
According to Maj. Gen. Barbivai, "approximately 10 to 15 percent of IDF soldiers complete their 12 years of educations during their military service. The IDF also accommodates and assists soldiers from underprivileged backgrounds both during and after their service."
"We educate our soldiers to first of all be human beings within the army, while promoting ethical values. We make sure the commanders lead their soldiers as educators led by the IDF's moral code, the Spirit of the IDF," she added. "The connection between IDF ethics and the mission at hand creates a more prepared soldier and an even better citizen in the future."