In a strategic move aimed at reinforcing its influence in occupied East Jerusalem, the Israeli government has unveiled an extensive budgetary blueprint set to span the upcoming five years.
According to an official statement released on Sunday, the government has designated a substantial budget of 3.2 billion Israeli shekels (equivalent to $843 million) for investment in East Jerusalem, to be dispersed between the years 2024 and 2028.
The primary objective of this ambitious undertaking, as outlined in the statement, is to address persistent social disparities and stimulate economic advancement within the East Jerusalem region.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, discussing the implications of this initiative, asserted that the decision holds the potential to transform the very essence of Jerusalem. Netanyahu highlighted that the plan's execution would contribute to a significant upsurge in the number of individuals attaining a high school diploma.
The educational landscape in East Jerusalem involves a notable nuance: schools in the region follow the Palestinian curriculum known as "tawjihi," which leads to the attainment of a high school diploma. Conversely, Israel is actively pushing for the adoption of the Israeli curriculum for students in East Jerusalem.
This cultural and educational pivot has sparked ongoing challenges for Palestinians residing in occupied East Jerusalem. Despite dedicated efforts to preserve their established curriculum, they continue to grapple with Israel's endeavors to implement change. The clash between maintaining cultural identity and accommodating evolving educational demands underscores the complex dynamics at play.
News ID : 2407