U.S. Zionist Youth Parley Discusses Israel Summer Programs

Plans for promoting interest in the Israel Summer Programs of 1953, sponsored by the Jewish Agency, were discussed at an all-day conference here, attended by representatives of the various Zionist youth movements and Jewish communities of eastern United States and Canada. The conference was highlighted by addresses by Moshe Kol, member of the Jewish Agency executive in charge of Youth Aliyah, and Leo Krown, director of PATWA (Professional and Technical Workers Aliyah) in the United States.

The parley dealt with plans for the three projects comprising the Israel Summer Programs. They are: the Israel Summer Institute, a seven-week tour, work and study program in Israel for American students and teachers between 18 and 35; the PATWA Summer Work Program which provides an opportunity for American professionals and technical students and trainees to serve a period of apprenticeship in Israel industry, and the Young Judea Summer Camp, a work, study and sightseeing program in Israel designed for the teen-aged members of Young Judea.

Mr. Kol said that young Americans visiting Israel should endeavor to study the nation’s fundamental problems–the consolidation of its immigrant population into “one people” and the establishment of economic self-sufficiency. “It is not necessary to follow in the tracks of the tourist,” he advised. “Visit fewer places if necessary but spend more time in each. You will come to see more clearly the human side of Israel’s rebirth.” Mr. Krown pointed out Israel’s urgent need for qualified American professionals and technicians in practically all fields.