Marva

For young Jewish adults who want to become familiar with Israel, Marva is a unique opportunity to experience the physical and emotional challenges of the country, its problems and people.  Through hiking the land, living in field conditions, navigating deserts and hillsides and participating in seminars and lectures, you will learn hands on the issues of the country. Marva will help you strengthen your ties to Israel, whether you're a tourist or potential new immigrant. It is a group experience like no other.

Program Outline

This approximately eight week program is open to participants from all over the world.  The program is conducted in Hebrew (easy) allowing for significant improvement of Hebrew skills. Activities rang from camp craft, navigation and topography to hikes, lectures, seminars and walking tours, participation in training exercises, and living in field conditions. Emphasis is placed on Israel’s security situation and settlement of the land, through lectures on specific social and political problems. The program is based in the Southern Negev on a Gadna base, but participants will spend considerable time in various other parts of the country, including Jerusalem,  the Golan Heights, the Galilee and more.

Acceptance Criteria

Applicants should be Jewish tourists between the ages of 18-28.  A working knowledge of Hebrew is required (minimally, completion of ulpan level aleph). Marva is a physically and mentally demanding program.  Applicants are expected to be in excellent physical condition and must be highly motivated. It is necessary to undergo a personal interview prior to acceptance.